By Loren Thomas 
Source: newsplex.com

With the General Assembly headed back to Richmond in the coming week’s one organization is hoping to gain support to pass a bill that could legalize the industrialization of hemp.

The Virginia Industrial Hemp Coalition (VIHC) is determined to legalize hemp research and growth in the Commonwealth.

Industrialized hemp could soon take root in Virginia, that's if House Bill 1277 passes this year.

The U.S. Farm Bill currently allows states to legalize hemp for research and so far 17 states have jumped on the bandwagon.

Jason Amatucci, founder of the VIHC says Virginia should be next.

“We just want to catch up in Virginia and be a part of this new economy,” says Amatucci.

On Saturday night people in support of HB 1277, which would legalize hemp in the Commonwealth, gathered at the Boneyard restaurant in Belmont to watch the movie “Hemptsters” and discuss more about the plant.

“It is not marijuana,” says Amatucci. “It is a completely different plant and has completely different attributes and grows really fast and tall.”

“This is a natural resource.”

The plant can be used to make textiles and food along with thousands of other products.

“We've got all these new technologies,” says Amatucci. “We're talking about batteries, bio diesel; we're talking about “hempcrete,” a non-toxic alternative to concrete.”

Amatucci says they just need support to help transform hemp into a legal economic source in Virginia.

“Call, write, 
, your delegate, your state senator and say 'I'm a constituent and I support bill 1277.'” Says Amatucci. “We'll be watching how you vote.”

“We really think this is part for jobs, economy and the environment and it's a win for Virginia.”

The General Assembly goes back into session on January 15.

If you would like to learn more about industrial hemp and HB 1277 make sure you check out the links under the photo in this story.