Industrial Hemp Legalization Bill to Get Hearing, But Maybe Not Vote

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For supporters of legalizing hemp, it's a case of good news and bad news.

The good news? A bill filed in the Kentucky legislature that would allow farmers to grow hemp if federal restrictions are lifted is likely to have a hearing next month in the Senate Agriculture Committee, according to the Lexington Herald-Leader. 

However, it remains uncertain whether the measure will be allowed to receive a vote. Sen. Paul Hornback, a Georgetown Republican and chairman of the committee, says members of his own party might block the committee from voting on the issue.

The Senate Republican Caucus will meet Feb. 6 in a closed-door meeting to discuss the measure.

Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner James Comer is leading the charge to legalize industrial hemp, and will chair the next meeting of the state's industrial hemp commission Monday in Frankfort.