Bill Description

This bill, originally introduced by Rep. Massie (R-KY), would amend the Controlled Substances Act to exclude industrial hemp from the definition of marijuana. Industrial hemp and marijuana are not the same and it is not possible to use industrial hemp as a recreational drug. The growth and cultivation of industrial hemp would still need to be in accordance with state law.

Liberty for All's Position

This bill preserves the autonomy of the states to determine whether or not the growth and cultivation of industrial hemp would be permitted within their borders while removing federal impediments to industrial hemp growth and cultivation in those states. Industrial hemp is a lucrative and viable economic crop that would provide jobs and income, especially in rural areas in need of the economic boost it could provide. Liberty For All supports free-markets, the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, and the right of states to determine the legal status of industrial hemp growth and cultivation for themselves.

Current Status

This bill was assigned to a congressional committee on February 6, 2013, which will consider it before possibly sending it on to the House or Senate as a whole.