Louisiana House Bill HB1085

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/5/16
• Refer: 4/6/16
• Report Pass: 4/14/16
• Engrossed: 4/27/16
• Refer: 4/28/16

Caption

Authorizes institutions of higher education to develop a pilot program to study the growth, cultivation, or marketing of industrial hemp for agricultural or academic research

Impact

If enacted, HB 1085 would significantly impact state laws by establishing a framework that legitimizes and regulates the cultivation of industrial hemp for research purposes. This could lead to advancements in agricultural practices and contribute to the economic potential of hemp as a crop. The bill also mandates that certified institutions provide results from their research to legislative committees, thereby ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of the pilot programs. This initiative highlights a growing interest in industrial hemp, a product known for its versatility and potential economic benefits.

Summary

House Bill 1085, sponsored by Representative Montoucet, authorizes state institutions of higher education to develop pilot programs aimed at studying the growth, cultivation, and marketing of industrial hemp for agricultural or academic research. The bill, which aligns with federal regulations that permit research of industrial hemp under the Agriculture Act of 2014, seeks to facilitate academic inquiry into this emerging agricultural sector. It outlines the necessary steps for institutions to gain certification from the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, including submitting research plans and notifying state law enforcement about their activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1085 appears to be generally positive among supporters, who view the bill as a progressive step in agricultural research and a means for Louisiana to engage with a fast-evolving industry. Advocates argue that such legislation not only addresses modern agricultural topics but also aligns Louisiana with other states that have already embraced industrial hemp research and production. However, while specific opposition is less prominent, there are underlying concerns regarding the potential for misuse or regulatory challenges as the state navigates this relatively new agricultural frontier.

Contention

Notable points of contention may center around the regulatory implications of allowing educational institutions to engage in industrial hemp research. Stakeholders may debate the adequacy of oversight provided by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and whether the pilot programs might set precedents for future commercial hemp farming. Additionally, federal and state alignment with laws and regulations related to cannabis products will also be critical, raising questions about public perception and legal enforcement as institutions potentially expand their hemp-related activities beyond research.