The Wisconsin Assembly voted Nov. 12 to approve updated hemp regulations that align the state’s rules more closely with guidelines in the 2018 Farm Bill, according to a Wisconsin Public Radio report.
The legislation re-authorizes hemp cultivation in the state and implements several technical changes to Wisconsin's existing hemp law, which was enacted in 2017, Wisconsin Public Radio reported. Under current law, hemp cultivators and processors must undergo background checks and are not permitted to work in the industry if they have state or federal drug convictions, according to the news outlet.
In addition, current law requires Wisconsin’s hemp crops to pass tests for THC levels, and any crop containing more than 0.3% THC must be destroyed. Last month, some farmers blamed more potent crops on testing delays, and under the new legislation, the state agriculture department would be able to hire third-party contractors to assist with testing, Wisconsin Public Radio reported.
The state Senate approved the proposal last month, and the bill now heads to Gov. Tony Evers’ desk for his signature.
