A bill allowing for more business opportunities for industrial hemp, was passed by the Alaska Legislature today.
SB 27, if signed by the governor, would allow for the state to maintain a permanent industrial hemp program and allow for more broad interstate commerce of Alaska-grown and manufactured hemp products.
Hemp fibers have been used to manufacture hundreds of products that include fiber for injected/molded composite materials, twine, paper, clothing, construction materials, carpeting, clothing, and animal bedding. According to the University of Kentucky. Up until the 1950s, Kentucky was the leading state for hemp agriculture. Seeds are used in making oils, cosmetics, personal care products, and medicines. Hemp seed or oil can be found in cooking oil, salad dressings, pasta, and snacks.
In 2018, the Legislature passed a bill establishing a state Industrial Hemp Pilot Program. Congress passed the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, which changed the federal requirements for the industrial hemp market.
“The passage of Senate Bill 27 will not only ensure federal compliance, but will also provide agricultural and manufacturing business opportunities for hemp and help diversify our state’s economy,” said Senate Majority Leader Shelley Hughes, R-Palmer, the bill’s sponsor.
SB 27 passed the Senate 20-0 and the House 38-2, for a combined vote of 58-2. It is now on its way to Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s desk for his signature.
Learn more about the state’s hemp pilot program at this link.
Who are the 2 dummies that voted no?
I hope this industry does well here. But if the idiots in the Legislature has anything to do with it’s potential they will stop it from happening because they do not want Alaska to prosper.
Alaska has the potential to one of the wealthiest States with our resources yet we are being stopped from making Alaska a self sufficient entity. Look at the PFD issues we are facing as well as the potential for unlimited revenue from the oil industry. Yes we are all being stopped from utilizing what is here.
They were out back smoking something and missed/forgot, what they were voting on.
Ah, yes. The legislature keeping their eye on the ball.
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Meanwhile, still no budget.
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Way to go, morons!
This is great news! Hemp is a huge industry that is often underestimated in ropes alone. I’d be proud to buy an Alaskan grown and made hemp rope. Let’s all hope the gov signs it.
Wow. That took far too long to do!
I would also like the agricultural industry to take flight here. I understand the winters are intense but with advances in hydroponics and other means to artificially grow crops, it makes little sense why we couldn’t drive down the cost of our own produce with enough innovation and investment.
Frank Turney is rolling over in his grave………..laughing his a$$ off.
Long overdue.
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