The deregulation of hemp across the nation continues. Recently, two states with rich agricultural histories made the forward-thinking jump into hemp. Kansas and Oklahoma have both legalized hemp pilot programs and research initiatives under the Farm Bill. Both programs will add alternative crop diversification for Kansas and Oklahoma farmers, setting the stage for new farming enterprises that are focused on the cultivation of industrial hemp.

On April 20, Kanas Gov. Jeff Coyler signed Senate Bill 263 into law. Sponsored by Sen. Dan Kerschen, SB 263 also known as the Alternative Crop Research Act, allows state-licensed farmers to cultivate, produce, process, and sell industrial hemp materials and by-products. Industrial hemp farming licenses granted by the Kansas Department of Agriculture to eligible farmers should be issued by the end of 2018 or early 2019.

Oklahoma passed its own industrial hemp pilot program and research measures on April 23. Signed by Gov. Mary Fallin, House Bill 2913, legalizes the cultivation, production, processing, and sale of industrial materials and by-products.

“Hemp is a great for textiles, plastics, even as fuel,” said Oklahoma Rep. Mickey Dollens. “We know Oklahoma has to diversify our economy. We need new and recurring revenue and this does both.” The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry have recently begun accepting licensing applications.

These legislative movements may not change the legalities of hemp oil and CBD in these states, but the foundation of hemp pilot programs are indirect measures of loosening the restrictions of industrial hemp and should lead to more lenient hemp oil laws in the future.

If you live in a state where hemp oil is being debated for legality we strongly urge you to contact your local representative. For representative contact information in your region visit the resource section on NationalHempAssociation.org.