Missouri Gives Initial Approval to Legalize Industrial Hemp

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]A[/dropcap]s the acceptance of cannabis continues to grow in the U.S., the age-old stigma against hemp is starting to fade away as well. Although the state of Missouri is not very far along with legalizing smoke-able cannabis, it could be the next state to legalize hemp.

According to U.S. News, Missouri’s House of Representatives recently gave initial approval to a bill that would legalize hemp for industrial use. Those who have been supporting this bill argue that it will be good for farmers and businesses, as it would add another legal cash crop. As legalization ramps up, hemp is expected to be a very lucrative business. If the bill passes, cultivators will still need to obtain a permit from the state Department of Agriculture before they can begin to legally plant.

Although  a bill to legalize cannabis was proposed around the same time as this bill, it was shot down, while the hemp bill has made it further through the approval process. Next, this bill will need to be voted on in the Missouri Senate. This is where Missouri’s hemp bill died last year, so hopefuls are still holding their breath through this last step.

“Missouri used to be a leader in industrial hemp,” State Sen. Brian Munzlinger told the Herald-Whig back in January when the legislation was first introduced. “This is a good alternative crop for farmers that could add to their bottom line. The great thing about the plant is it doesn’t need fertilizer or herbicides and it grows well in poor soil.”

In addition to potentially legalizing hemp, Missouri has also been discussing expanding their list of qualifying conditions for those who consume medical cannabis. With these positive steps in the works, the state seems to be on the right track for a more sensible cannabis policy.