Hemp Legislation Vote Expected Today

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The House Agriculture and Small Business Committee is expected to vote today on a proposal that could open the door to industrial hemp farming in Kentucky.

Chairman Tom McKee of Cynthiana said he expects the measure to pass. It’s intended to put Kentucky in position to license growers if the feds ever lift restrictions on growing hemp. The measure, which has passed the Senate, faces an uncertain future in the House even if McKee's committee approves it. House Speaker Greg Stumbo has said he doesn't know if it will be called for a floor vote. State Police have raised concerns about hemp fields being used to camouflage illegal marijuana, but Agriculture Commissioner James Comer insists that hemp could be an economic boon for Kentucky.