Pubdate: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
Source: Telegraph Herald (IA)
Copyright: 2001 Telegraph Herald
Contact:   801 Bluff St., P.O. Box 688, Dubuque,IA   52004-0688
Fax: (319) 588-5745
Website: http://www.thonline.com/
Author: Mary Rae Bragg

ILLINOIS HOUSE APPROVES STUDY OF HEMP

The Illinois House passed a bill Tuesday calling for a feasibility study of 
growing hemp as a legal crop.

It was a 67-43 vote victory for Rep. Ron Lawfer, R-Stockton, who supports 
hemp as an alternative crop. Opponents have expressed concern that the 
introduction of hemp could lead to legalization of marijuana.

"There is a misperception that growing hemp will lead to increased drug 
use," Lawfer said. "Hemp is not a drug, and the sole purpose of growing it 
is to help farmers and provide a product that the market demands."

Hemp currently is imported into the United States for industrial use.

The study bill was passed by the Illinois Senate last spring, 49-9, and now 
awaits Gov. George Ryan's signature. Lawfer said Ryan has expressed support 
for studying alternative crops.

"It has been known for some time that hemp is useful in the making of many 
materials," Lawfer said. "This could prove to be an excellent alternate 
rotation crop for farmers and an effective way to increase farm income."

The study will examine the best growing conditions for hemp, methods of 
adapting machinery for its harvest, and identify appropriate seed varieties 
for Illinois and the required soils. The study will be conducted by the 
University of Illinois and Southern Illinois University.

Lawfer said it will be necessary for the universities to obtain federal 
permits to secure seed, and the study will be strictly controlled. 
Researchers are to report their findings to the General Assembly by January 
2002.
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