Legislators Consider the Legalization of Hemp - CA

State legislators are expected to consider a measure this week that would allow hemp to be grown in California, rekindling the debate over whether such a move would increase cultivation of illegal marijuana and conflict with federal laws regulating the drug.

A committee of the state Senate is scheduled today to review legislation to permit California farmers to grow industrial hemp. The bill - AB684 - would establish a five-year pilot program in several California counties and define "industrial hemp" as separate from "marijuana" under the state's Health and Safety Code.

Last year, a similar bill reached the desk of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, but he vetoed it, saying he was "very concerned that this bill would give legitimate growers a false sense of security and a belief that production of 'industrial hemp' is somehow a legal activity under federal law."

The new bill was co-authored by Assemblymen Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, and Chuck DeVore, R-Irvine (Orange County), the same lawmakers who pushed last year's hemp legislation.

"It's such an incredible crop," said Leno, referring to the versatility of hemp.

Hemp seed oil is used in soaps, lotions, shampoos and deodorant, as well as in such foods as hemp milk, snack bars, shakes and candy. The oil also can be converted into fully biodegradable plastics. Hemp fibers are used to make clothing and paper.

SF Gate