Iowa Gov. Signs Hemp Bill

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has signed the hemp legalization measure passed by the legislature late last month but noted that the measure “does not legalize the sale or manufacturing of…CBD.”

In a statement, the Republican governor noted that the federal Food and Drug Administration has not yet approved the cannabinoid for human or animal consumption.

“The FDA has also declared that CBD is not a dietary supplement. State law cannot preempt the federal law, and Iowans engaging in the manufacture, sale, or purchase of hemp-derived products should carefully consider the legality of their actions under Iowa and federal law.” – Reynolds, in a press release

The measure, which passed the House 95-3 and the Senate 49-1, does allow licensees to cultivate up to 40 acres; however, hemp farming isn’t expected to begin in the state until next year.

Under the federal hemp law changes approved last year, states must submit their proposed hemp regulations to the Department of Agriculture for approval prior to farmers putting seeds into the ground. The USDA released guidance for importing hemp seeds last month which requires imported seeds to include documentation that the strains will produce less than 0.3 percent THC and are free of pests.

In her statement, Reynolds said the hemp industry is still evolving and “it is imperative” that state agencies and the legislature “remain vigilant in evaluating the effects of this legislation and the need for additional changes to ensure that our laws protect the health and safety of all Iowans.”