New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo yesterday signed legislation into law establishing a regulatory framework for the production and sale of hemp and hemp extract in the state.
“The hemp industry in New York is exploding and with that growth comes a responsibility to regulate the industry in a way that helps ensure its long-term viability and protects consumers,” said Governor Cuomo. “By establishing a regulatory framework for producing and selling hemp and hemp extract we can set the industry on a path to continued growth in a smart, safe way that empowers both farmers and consumers.”
The legislation and related chapter agreement (S.6184/A.7680):
- provides a more streamlined regulatory pathway for hemp products.
- grants the Department of Agriculture and Markets supervision over hemp growers.
- grants the Department of Health supervision over hemp extract.
- creates a registration requirement for sellers of hemp extract products.
- makes conforming regulatory changes to the 2018 Farm Bill.
- defers decision making on hemp extracts, including CBD, as food and beverage additives.
Hemp industry participants will also be required to test and label their products. Labels will need warn consumers of any potential impact of consumption and no label can state hemp extract can treat cure or prevent any disease without the necessary approvals required by federal law. Labels will also require a supplement panel to include information on serving sizes and potency.
All hemp extract products will be required to be extracted and manufactured in accordance with Good Manufacturing Processes (GMP)
New York State launched its Industrial Hemp Agricultural Research Pilot Program in 2015, initially only allowing a limited number of participants. In 2017, it eliminated the cap on the number of sites and expanded the program to include farmers and businesses. In 2018, more than 60 new farms and businesses had been granted permits to participate in the state’s program by April.
Senator Jen Metzger, who sponsored S.8184, was thrilled with the bill being signed into law by Governor Cuomo
Today, New York has taken a nation-leading step forward to create the framework for growing, processing, and selling hemp extract and related products in our state, providing a tremendous opportunity for our farmers and businesses up the value chain while ensuring that we have the standards needed to protect consumer safety and well-being,” said Senator Metzger.
