There are some new state laws for farmers growing hemp, and a lawmaker believes they’ll help expand the industry.
Republican Sen. Pat Testin of Stevens Point says there’s a big market. He says the state currently imports about $600 million worth of hemp products from other countries.
He thinks one change will streamline the testing process for the plants by letting private companies participate. Those tests are required to make sure the plants don’t contain the active ingredient in marijuana.
Another law lets farmers take their hemp in and out of Wisconsin, while they’re selling it.