CONTACT: Rep. Dave Considine, (608) 266-7746
Madison – Today, the State Assembly passed Senate Bill (SB) 119, relating to the growth and processing of industrial hemp in Wisconsin. SB 119 would direct the state Department of Agriculture to create an industrial hemp pilot program, which would allow farmers to grow hemp once approved for a license through the Department. Rep. Dave Considine (D-Baraboo), the lead author of a similar hemp bill, issued the following statement in response to the vote:
“I joined the push to reinvigorate Wisconsin’s industrial hemp industry nearly three years ago when I was first elected,” said Rep. Considine. “Farmers and citizens across our state are learning more about hemp and realizing that it could be a great opportunity for our agricultural economy. With this broadening support, there is no good reason industrial hemp should still be illegal in our state.
“I have not supported every part of SB 119, and I still think we could improve several parts of the bill. But more than that, I support our farmers. Industrial hemp is a part of Wisconsin’s agricultural future, and that is why I voted for SB 119. I hope Governor Walker will agree that this is a major opportunity and sign this bill into law.”
