A pair of New York State lawmakers are proposing a bill that would legalize the growing of industrial hemp for research purposes. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo from Broome County and Senator Thomas O'Mara of Chemung County believe that approval of the bill will strengthen and diversify the agricultural industry in the state. Hemp growth has been banned by the Drug Enforcement Administration because of its similarities to marijuana, though it lacks the psychoactive element.
A wide array of products can be made from hemp, and the effort for legalized growth is being supported by the state Farm Bureau.
Passage of the bill would make New York the 11th state to legalize hemp production.
