- Originally, legislation pertained to Narragansetts and research-driven universities By Jennifer Bogdan
Source: providencejournal.com
Rep. Joseph McNamara: "What we have done with this bill is said that anyone that is qualified [can grow]." The Providence Journal/Kris Craig, files
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A bill that would have legalized hemp and given the Narragansett Indian Tribe and research-driven universities exclusive growing rights was amended Wednesday to allow anyone in the state to grow the crop that is a cousin to marijuana.
The House Health, Education and Welfare Committee unanimously passed the amended bill Wednesday, sending it to the House floor. Changes to bill were initially described as minor.
After Rep. Arthur Handy, D-Cranston, noted that reference to the tribe appeared to be deleted in the amended bill, Chairman Joseph McNamara said, "What we have done with this bill is said that anyone that is qualified [can grow]. It's not an exclusive license for the Narragansetts. They don't have an exclusive right to this."
Hemp, unlike marijuana, has a low concentration (less than 1 percent) of the mind-altering chemical THC and has several industrial applications, such as making oils, paper and cloth.
During a hearing, the tribe argued that it historically used hemp to build houses and make clothing. Exclusive growing rights could help the tribe become economically self-sufficient, tribal officials argued.
The amended bill allows an uncapped number of individuals, firms and corporations to apply for hemp growing licenses with the Department of Business Regulation beginning 60 days after the bill becomes law. Licenses would cost $2,500 and have to be renewed every three years.
Hemp remains on the federal uniformed controlled substances list, grouped in with marijuana. Law enforcement has opposed hemp legalization in the state, arguing that it could be a regulatory nightmare because the plant closely resembles marijuana and its distinguished based on a tested chemical concentration.
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