HB 1421 Summary

• Authorizes hemp production in Hawaii for individuals and entities with a federal license from the U.S. Department of Agriculture under 7 USC § 1639q.

• Prohibits hemp cultivation by persons convicted of controlled substance felonies for 10 years following conviction and restricts growing to state agricultural districts.

• Reduces setback distance from residential structures from 500 feet to 100 feet and allows home-based cultivation within United States Department of Agriculture licensed production areas.

• Permits the Department of Agriculture to align state hemp production rules with federal exemptions for fiber, fuel, and seed grain crops without exceeding federal law requirements.

• Effective upon approval.