Hemp Bill Signed by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed into law legislation that aims to boost hemp production in the state.
According to the Associated Press, Governor Cuomo announced $10 million in state funds to boost industrial hemp research and development. The bill signed by Cuomo formally adds hemp to the state’s list of agricultural commodities and creates a hemp advisory panel.
According to Governor Cuomo, hemp holds great potential for New York’s agricultural and biotechnology industries. A state program launched last year allows farmers to partner with universities to grow and research hemp.
According to congressional research, the United States imports over half a billion dollars in hemp from other countries – primarily China and Canada – while retaining the illegality of its cultivation among its own farmers. According to the same report, the hemp market to consist of over roughly 25,000 various products.