My name is Geoff Whaling, elected Chairman of the National Hemp Association, one of the largest independent national hemp advocacy groups in the county.  We thank you for the opportunity to comment today and thank you for the ongoing dialogue.
We represent farmers, growers, manufacturers, supporters, investors and those looking to retail hemp products. We have helped many states and members address the numerous challenges that have come with the 2014 Farm Bill and are pleased that we have worked to add language so to allow Indian councils and Territories be granted permission to grow the crop. We too are pleased to have worked with NIFA to advance research and to develop the national Industrial hemp center of excellence.
This is a historical moment in the country and an opportunity to rekindle an industry that could bring about thousands of new jobs and opportunities for America and American Farmers. There are already examples of regulatory frameworks that are in place in NY, PA and CO that should be referenced to advance your efforts.
Yet we need to move carefully and cautiously so to build an industry versus repeat the challenges in Canada that prevented that industry from achieving its potential.
We have heard, even today, mis information about how the federal government is implementing the 2018 Farm Bill legislation. As an example, I heard this morning from one State representative that there is a need for DEA import.  Yet, DEA has recently advised there field offices that that they will no longer require import permits. The problem is that the DEA has taken no steps as of today to issue guidance to the public.  This will no doubt cause disruption for the 2019 grow season – which may discourage those who are excited about this potential to think otherwise.
We know that you are working with all of the federal agencies so to coordinate one voice and one regulators framework and that this is not easy task.
We too encourage USDA to provide educational programs for law enforcement and other stakeholder groups so that they are aware the hemp is now recognized as a commodity crop and that issues such as interstate commerce are allowed.
We encourage you to move as quickly as possible to give interim guidance to help with the 2019 planting season, while at the same time working with the industry to ensure a comprehensive regulatory program so that we can achieve the potential that this crop can bring out nation.
Thank you for this opportunity and willingness to continue to work with the National Hemp Association.