Urges the United States Department of Agriculture to include Missouri in the federal Industrial Hemp Crop Insurance Program
The passage of HCR34 could significantly impact Missouri's agricultural landscape by enabling farmers to obtain federal crop insurance for their industrial hemp production. As it stands, Missouri farmers have shown a growing interest in hemp cultivation, yet their ability to mitigate risks associated with crop failure is limited due to the lack of coverage. Inclusion in the federal program could enhance the economic viability of hemp farming in Missouri, potentially leading to increased crop yields and profitability for local farmers.
HCR34 urges the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to include Missouri in the federal Industrial Hemp Crop Insurance Program. This resolution highlights the historical context of hemp cultivation in Missouri, noting that the state's farmers have engaged in hemp production since 1835 and references legislative changes affecting hemp farming since the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. The bill notes the challenges faced by Missouri farmers due to the lack of federal crop insurance coverage specifically for industrial hemp, despite the increased interest and crop registration in recent years.
While HCR34 serves to support local agriculture, it has drawn attention to the broader implications of state versus federal regulatory environments on crop insurance programs. Some stakeholders may voice concerns regarding the sustainability of hemp production given its fluctuating market and the specific regulations that govern its cultivation. Furthermore, debates may arise regarding the extent of federal oversight in state agricultural practices, with some arguing for more localized control.