MO HB701

Defines "industrial hemp" as cannabis sativa plants with THC concentration not exceeding 0.3% on a dry weight basis, explicitly excluding it from the definition of "marijuana" and controlled substances under Missouri law

Establishes a licensing and permit system through the Missouri Department of Agriculture for growers and handlers of industrial hemp, requiring fingerprint background checks and prohibiting licenses for those with felony drug convictions within five years

Requires industrial hemp crops to be at least 2.5 acres and subjects growers/handlers to a seed-to-sale tracking system, inspections, and record-keeping requirements

Authorizes the Department of Agriculture to revoke licenses and impose civil penalties of $2,500 to $50,000 for violations of licensing requirements, permit conditions, or department rules

Places the burden of proof on defendants who claim a possessed substance was industrial hemp rather than a controlled substance, and permits cultivation by anyone without a felony or misdemeanor drug conviction