New York Says USDA Rules Too Strict, Halts Plans For Hemp Program
The announcement effectively puts NY’s hemp program on hold
The state of New York will not submit a state hemp plan to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), saying the federal program‘s requirements are too strict on growers. The announcement effectively puts on hold the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets’ hemp program.
Announcing the decision in a letter to hemp stakeholders this week, state Agriculture & Markets Commissioner Richard Ball said his agency had found “substantial elements of the USDA’s requirements to be very challenging and contrary to Congress’ objective of stimulating the hemp industry.”
“Many of the requirements concerning the scope and timing of sampling and testing, the disposal of non-compliant plants, and reporting are unrealistic and impose unreasonable burdens on growers and any state interested in administering a (USDA) compliant program,” Ball said in the letter.
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