PRESENT
For the first time since World War II, hemp has returned to U.S. soil. The Farm Bill passed in 2014 included Section 7606, "Legitimacy of Industrial Hemp Research," which has allowed states five years to enact industrial hemp legislation, conduct research, and to determine the economic viability of hemp crops through university or state pilot programs.
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Since then –
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Thirty-one (38) states have passed hemp legislation
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Nine (9) states currently have various forms of hemp legislation pending
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Fifteen (15) states launched hemp research programs
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Thirty (30) universities and colleges are participating in hemp pilot program research
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Over 20,000 total acres have been registered for hemp production amongst states combined
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Based on research programs, state support, and legislative influence, Kentucky has once again emerged as the industry leader. This year (2017) the Kentucky Hemp Pilot Program has approved over 12,800 acres, three times the amount allotted in 2016. In addition, Kentucky Congressmen continue to champion federal hemp legislation.
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