Californian officials are attempting to pass a bill, which would give farmers in the State, the right to grow hemp as a crop. Supporters for the bill claim that despite its family links, hemp is a completely safe product that could be turned into a cash crop for California, because of its use in a long list of products from soap and cosmetics to rope, jewellery and even luggage.

Hemp has long been the subject of much political debate and controversy. It has sometimes been labelled as a dangerous plant, despite the fact that it provides us with a completely natural and very versatile material.

It is currently illegal to grow hemp in America, but some states have passed laws that aim to allow it to be farmed. They hope to meet the country’s need for processed hemp and avoid having to import the material. States already involved in changing the laws regarding the farming of hemp include Hawaii, Kentucky, West Virginia, Montana and North Dakota.
Photo: Hemp