How Has the 2018 Farm Bill Affected the Great State of Idaho

In December 2018, the Agricultural Improvement Act, commonly known as the 2018 Farm Bill, was signed into law. This comprehensive legislation brought significant changes to U.S. agricultural policies, including a landmark shift in the status of hemp. With the passage of this bill, hemp was removed from the list of controlled substances, effectively legalizing its cultivation and the production of hemp-based products across the United States. This change has had a profound impact on states like Idaho, where the legal landscape surrounding hemp has evolved substantially.

Understanding the 2018 Farm Bill

The 2018 Farm Bill reclassified hemp, defining it as cannabis with a THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content of no more than 0.3% by dry weight. THC is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis that produces a “high,” and the 0.3% threshold ensures that hemp does not have intoxicating effects. This reclassification distinguished hemp from marijuana, which remains a Schedule I controlled substance.

The bill also outlined provisions for hemp cultivation, including:

1. State and Tribal Plans: States and Native American tribes were given the authority to regulate hemp production within their jurisdictions. These plans must be approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
2. Federal Licensing: In states without an approved plan, hemp producers can apply for licenses directly from the USDA.
3. Interstate Commerce: The bill protects the interstate commerce of hemp and hemp products, preventing states from prohibiting the transportation of hemp through their borders.

Hemp in Idaho: A New Legal Landscape

Before the 2018 Farm Bill, Idaho had stringent laws against any form of cannabis, including hemp. However, the federal legalization of hemp prompted Idaho to reconsider its stance. In 2019, the Idaho Legislature passed Senate Bill 1345, which established a framework for hemp production in the state. This bill was signed into law by Governor Brad Little in 2020, marking a significant shift in Idaho’s approach to hemp.

Key provisions of Idaho’s hemp legislation include:

• Licensing and Regulation: Farmers must obtain a license from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) to grow hemp. The ISDA oversees the cultivation, processing, and transportation of hemp to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Testing and Compliance: Hemp crops are subject to testing to verify that they do not exceed the 0.3% THC limit. Crops that test above this threshold must be destroyed to prevent the production of illegal marijuana.
• Research and Development: The legislation encourages research into hemp’s agricultural and industrial potential, paving the way for innovation and growth in Idaho’s hemp industry.

Enjoying Hemp-Based Products in Idaho

With the legalization of hemp, Idahoans now have access to a wide range of hemp-based products. These products include:

• CBD (Cannabidiol) Products: CBD is a non-intoxicating compound found in hemp that has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. Idaho residents can purchase CBD oils, tinctures, edibles, and topical products, provided they contain less than 0.3% THC.
• Hemp Fiber and Textiles: Hemp fibers are used to produce a variety of products, including clothing, paper, and building materials. The cultivation of hemp in Idaho supports the local economy and promotes sustainable practices.
• Hemp Seed and Food Products: Hemp seeds are rich in protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients. Idahoans can enjoy hemp seeds, hemp milk, and other nutritious food products derived from hemp.

The 2018 Hemp Farm Bill has had a transformative impact on Idaho, bringing the state into alignment with federal regulations and opening the door to a thriving hemp industry. By establishing a legal framework for hemp cultivation and production, Idaho has embraced the economic and environmental benefits of this versatile crop. Residents can now legally grow hemp and enjoy a wide array of hemp-based products, contributing to the state’s agricultural diversity and economic prosperity.