The Connecticut Legislature passed a bill that will implement hemp production under the 2018 Farm Bill. The legislation establishes the licensing framework and the oversight program for the production, processing and manufacturing of hemp and hemp products. The Act defines the term “manufacture” as “the conversion of hemp for the purpose of creating a consumable.” Persons selling hemp products, including those intended for human consumption are not required to be licensed.
The Act’s requirements for hemp production and processing are in line with other states that recently enacted similar regulation. The new law governs the seed, testing, disposal and transport of hemp and hemp products.
The portion of the Act setting out the obligations for manufacturers is robust and requires independent testing by a lab that is ISO certified and governs the marketing and labeling of products..
The testing requirements are quite similar those applicable to cannabis. Hemp products must be tested for microbiological contaminants, mycotoxins, heavy metals and pesticide chemical residue, and active ingredient analysis. Hemp or hemp products that fail the tests must be surrendered to the Commissioner of Consumer Protection for disposal. The new law also prohibits the marketing of hemp products as providing a medical effect or promoting a mental or physical benefit.