USDA Seeks Comments on Domestic Hemp Production Program, Established by Interim Final Rule

On October 31, 2019, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service published an interim final rule with a request for comments to establish a domestic hemp production program in the United States. The rule is set to take effect immediately  and will expire on November 1, 2021 or when a final rule is issued. The rule outlines a procedure by which states and tribes can submit hemp production plans for approval by USDA. In those territories where there is no USDA approved plan, and where hemp production is not illegal on the state level, USDA will administer a Federal plan. The rule also outlines how information will be maintained, testing requirements to ensure that the products are legal, disposal requirements for non-compliant products and more. The agency is seeking comments on the plan to help inform a permanent final rule.  Written comments on the proposed rule are due by December 30, 2019.

• Read the Federal Register notice and submit your public comments here.
• Advocacy contact: Prianka Sharma at (202) 205-6938.