MS HB1359

Authorizes production and possession of industrial hemp in Mississippi, defined as Cannabis sativa plants with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration not exceeding 0.3% on a dry weight basis, subject to Department of Agriculture and Commerce regulation.

Requires all hemp growers and handlers to obtain industrial hemp licenses from the department, with minimum crop size of 2.5 acres for growers; licenses are valid for three years and non-transferable.

Permits growers to retain seeds from each crop for future planting without a separate permit, but seeds for sale must meet department standards; handlers producing agricultural hemp seed for sale must obtain a separate production permit.

Authorizes department inspections of records and crops with at least three days' notice; allows seizure of crops exceeding 0.3% THC; permits civil penalties up to $2,500 for violations and license revocation.

Amends Mississippi Code sections 41-29-113 and 69-1-13 to exempt industrial hemp from Schedule I controlled substances list and assign regulatory duties to the Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce; effective July 1, 2016.