There was recently a unanimous vote in Idaho’s House Agriculture Committee to introduce a new hemp bill. This bill is spearheaded by the Farm Bureau, with input and consideration from the agriculture industry, trucking industry, several state agencies, and law enforcement. That makes this bill an excellent representation of all relevant parties. And it might offer a chance in the near future for Idaho to legalize hemp for its citizens.

Hemp Legalization

Idaho is currently in the minority when it comes to state legalization of industrial hemp. Hemp is federally legal in 39 states thanks to the USDA’s Farm Bill passed in 2018. Idaho lawmakers also recently approved an amendment to the state’s constitution. This amendment would make all psychedelic drugs illegal in the state, including medical and recreational cannabis. 

This new bill would separate the definition of hemp from cannabis. It would define a product that contains less than 0.3 percent of Delta 9 THC as hemp. Delta 9 is the main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. As long as a product stays within that set definition, then it is hemp and separate from a controlled substance. 

The bill would also include:

• The Department of Agriculture would develop a state hemp program and submit it to the USDA for approval by September 1, 2021. This would hopefully allow for a 2022 harvest season.
• Authorize the research, production, processing, and transportation of hemp within and through the state. 
• Allow the legal possession of hemp.

Concerns

Many questions still surround the proposal. How would work within the state? And how would it work for citizens, while keeping them and their families safe? That’s the main concern amongst lawmakers when it comes to legalizing hemp, as well as cannabis. But overall it seems to be a solid plan that answers many questions raised over the years. 

Last year, Senate Bill 1345, which is similar to the bill currently being introduced, passed the Senate chamber with a 27-5 vote. But it was struck down in the House State Affairs committee by one vote. Many anti-marijuana activists spoke before the committee against the passage of SB 1345 because of hemp’s relationship to cannabis. Lawmakers argued that hemp would act like a gateway for those who wanted to try more dangerous substances. It would endanger children and families across Idaho.

Future

Despite previous setbacks, the Farm Bureau is pushing for the passage of this new legislation. It would not only bring more commerce to the state, but help local farmers grow additional crops. The program will cost $150,000 to create, but recurring costs would be covered through licensing fees.

There is no current indication from residents if they would participate in a hemp program. But with the Farm Bureau’s support, many assume that residents would be excited to participate. This bill will be heard in its entirety in the House Agriculture Committee soon. If it passes the committee, then it is off to a full House chamber vote.

Make sure to check back for more cannabis and hemp related news.