The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 made all forms of cannabis illegal to grow in the US, but hemp (the THC-less, distant relative of marijuana) is making a comeback. This year, S.C. opened the door for small farmers to begin growing the plant – which can be used to treat chronic illness or make food + clothing (and, no, it can’t get you high).

In August (two months before the application deadline), no farmers had applied to grow the crop. But after a deadline extension, 120+ S.C. farmers applied for a production license.

The Dept. of Agriculture was initially looking to give out 20 licenses to grow on 20 acres each pending a background check + compliance to work with an in-state university research team. But now that there’s more interest, after this year’s trial run, the department will give out 40 licenses with 40 acres each.

Currently in the U.S., 90% of hemp used in manufacturing is imported from China, so proponents are hopeful that the 31 states that can now produce hemp will bolster U.S. agriculture. Opponents are concerned growing hemp will lead to legalization of its (third?) cousin, marijuana.

3 min read / The State