HR 20 urging fed gov to allow the cultivation of hemp for industrial (not marijuana) I stand in support as did 260 others-41 opposed

HR 20, urging the federal government to allow the cultivation of hemp for industrial purposes.  OUGHT TO PASS.

Rep. Derek Owen for Environment and Agriculture:  For many years, this House has been considering the growing of hemp as a niche farm crop in the state.  Hemp is not marijuana.  It is a multi-purpose crop which can be made into balms, oils, fiber (the strongest natural fiber known to man), foods and plastics.  Industrial hemp is commercially produced in over 30 countries without any adverse consequences, and 28 states have considered and 15 states have enacted legislation on hemp.  The continued reluctance of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration to permit industrial hemp farming is denying New Hampshire farmers the ability to benefit from a high-value, low-input crop, which can provide significant economic benefits to producers and manufacturers alike.  Hemp is not marijuana.  This resolution will urge the Congress of the United States to remove the existing barriers imposed by the federal government, enabling our state to regulate the commercial production of hemp.  Vote 13-1.