News You Can Use: New York State Creating Cannabinoid Hemp Program

The Governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, announced in October 2020 that the state filed proposed rules to more closely regulate and standardize hemp products. The New York State Department of Health will create the Cannabinoid Hemp Program based on the legislation. According to the governor’s office, “The Program will license both cannabinoid hemp processors and retailers and set quality control standards that all cannabinoid hemp products must meet.” What does all of this mean? Read on.

Cuomo Speaks
According to Governor Cuomo, “These regulations are the next step toward regulating the growing hemp industry in New York in a way that protects consumers and helps ensure the industry’s long-term viability.” The governor continued that the regulations are integral in protecting farmers and consumers by producing and providing the very best hemp products.

Standardizing the Industry
The program is responsible for organizing the hemp program throughout the state by creating standard manufacturing practices, a licensing framework, and consistent laboratory testing. Additionally, products will be labeled and packaged according to set out guidelines. The legislation also legitimizes the business, so both consumers and producers can feel more comfortable.
Thanks to efforts like these, since 2015, New York has become one of the most prolific hemp-producing states. Currently, there are more than 100 manufacturers and 700 farmers who produce the plant. Find more on the regulations at: https://health.ny.gov/regulations/hemp/.

Source:
https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-proposed-regulations-cannabinoid-hemp-products