USDA Extends Comment Period on Interim Final Rule to Establish a Domestic Hemp Production Program

On Dec.18, 2019, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service issued an extension of the comment period for its previously published interim final rule to establish a domestic hemp production program in the United States. The rule is set to take effect immediately and will expire on Nov. 1, 2021 or when a final rule is issued. The rule outlines a procedure by which states and Indian tribes can submit hemp production plans for approval by USDA. In those areas 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 rule are now due by Jan. 29, 2020.

• Read the Federal Register notice here. 
• Submit your comments to the extended comment docket here. 
• Advocacy contact: Prianka Sharma at (202) 205-6938.