STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS27531C1 / S1345
This legislation adds a new chapter, 17, to title 22 of Idaho Code to enact the Industrial Hemp Research and
Development Act, which provides legislative intent, defines hemp, and permits any persons or institutions of
higher education in Idaho to grow, cultivate, harvest, sample, test, research, process, transport, transfer, take
possession of, sell, import and export hemp or hemp products containing .3% or less of tetrahydrocannabinols
(THC) in the state to the greatest extent allowed under federal law as outlined in the Federal Farm Bill of 2018.
It also amends sections of Title 37, including the Schedule 1, to revise a definition, define a term, provide an
exception for industrial hemp containing .3% or less of tetrahydrocannabinols (THC), and provide a correct
code reference. Finally, it adds a new section 67-2921 to provide for the transportation of industrial hemp.
FISCAL NOTE
One time start-up costs include: $100,000 for the Idaho State Department of Agriculture to coordinate
planning efforts with stakeholders such as growers, processors, the Idaho State Police, and others and to
contract with experts to develop a US Department of Agriculture-compliant Industrial Hemp State Plan with
the goal of having the State Plan approved by the USDA for the fall 2020 growing season; $50,000 for
additional contracting needs specific to the USDA requirements and other program start-up expenses. As it is
unknown to what extent Idaho growers and entrepreneurs will invest in growing and processing hemp, it is
anticipated that initial plant and oil samples will be sent to a lab that utilizes approved testing standards. North
Dakota compliance testing is $115 per sample. Current and ongoing costs will be offset by grower, transporter
and processor fees as determined by rule. Ongoing costs for program planning, coordination, informational
sessions, and plan compliance will be determined based upon State Plan needs with an expectation the
Department may need to request a supplemental budget appropriation for 2021.
Contact:
Senator Abby Lee
(208) 332-1325
Representative Caroline Nilsson Troy
(208) 332-1035
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 02/17/2020, 11:08 AM