USDA Rolls Out Hemp Program Seeking Public Comments

Late last month, the USDA announced its hemp program, which allows the sector to move forward.  According American Farm Bureau Federation Congressional Relations Director Scott Bennett, the interim final rule creates much needed standards for production, testing and licensing.

“This is the long-awaited interpretation from USDA of what Congress passed in the 2018 farm bill as it relates to the legalization of hemp. This interim final rule provides clarity to producers on everything from crop insurance, THC testing methods, crop destruction protocols, to interstate commerce.”

Hemp farmers have struggled getting financing for their operations as the banking industry needed guidance from USDA.  Bennett said the interim final rule addresses that problem.

“The banking industry largely has awaited these regulations in order to develop guidance regarding deposits derived from hemp operations. Without these regulations, the banking industry hasn’t been willing to take the risk of accepting deposits or lending money to these businesses. So, we see this as a positive enforcement of receiving financing for your hemp operation.”

Bennett said hemp producers should review the rule and provide feedback to USDA.  Public comment will be accepted through the federal register now through the end of December.

Click Here to read the rule in its entirety, or to make your thoughts known.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com