by Dave Rodman
Farmers grow hemp for manufacturers seeking cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN) and cannabigerol (CBG) for their oils, lotions and foods and beverages. They farm hemp for textiles, food, insulation and pet bedding. To date, researchers have identified more than 25,000 uses for hemp, according to various sources.
But farmers in every state do not benefit equally from hemp, and the reasons for the disparities revolve around more than climate and soil.
One trait that all hemp farmers share, a trait that sets hemp cultivators apart from traditional farmers, is a heightened awareness of the law. The obvious reason is that the law plays a big role in all hemp cultivators’ lives. The non-obvious aspect? Legal considerations do not impact all hemp farmers equally. Some states welcome hemp with enthusiasm, many allow it with a shrug and other states continue to ban it altogether.
As lawyers with hemp and cannabis practices, we routinely research evolving hemp laws in states across the country. Understanding the legal advantages and pitfalls is vital for everyone growing or thinking about growing hemp. To help give you a head start on understanding the national market, we’ve put together a list of the best—and worst—states for hemp cultivation:
