A bill authored by State Senator Randy Head (R-Logansport) that would allow for hemp production in Indiana Wednesday passed the Senate by a vote of 47 to 1.
Senate Bill 516 would allow those who obtain a license from the state seed commissioner to grow and handle hemp in Indiana. SB 516 would also establish the Indiana Hemp Advisory Committee, which would advise the Office of the State Seed Commissioner on Indiana’s hemp laws.
Hemp, though it is biologically related to marijuana, is a non-intoxicating plant that can be used for oil and fiber products.
“My colleagues and I have discussed and studied hemp production for years,” Head said. “Hemp is a valuable product that could help support our agriculture industry as well as our entire economy. With this bill, Indiana will have the necessary safeguards in place to ensure those with a license do not try to grow marijuana, and I believe we are in great shape to move forward with this legislation.”
Under SB 516, the state seed commissioner would be allowed to revoke a hemp license for intentional violations of the law or if the licensee fails to cooperate with law enforcement or the state seed commissioner.
SB 516 will now move to the House of Representatives.
