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H 117

An Act relative to hemp and hemp products in the Commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Cusack

Summary of House Bill H 117: An Act Relative to Hemp and Hemp Products in the Commonwealth Purpose and IntentThis bill aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for th

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 117

Summary of House Bill H 117: An Act Relative to Hemp and Hemp Products in the Commonwealth

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for the production, processing, and sale of hemp and hemp-derived products within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The primary goal is to position Massachusetts as a leader in the emerging hemp industry, foster economic development, and ensure the safety and quality of hemp products available to consumers.

Key Provisions

  • Legalizes the Cultivation and Processing of Hemp: The bill removes hemp (defined as cannabis plants containing 0.3% or less THC) from the state's controlled substances list, allowing for the legal cultivation, processing, and sale of hemp and hemp-derived products.
  • Creates a Hemp Regulatory Program: The bill tasks the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) with establishing and overseeing a Hemp Regulatory Program. This program will be responsible for issuing licenses, setting quality and testing standards, and enforcing compliance.
  • Requires Product Labeling and Testing: All hemp-derived products sold in Massachusetts must undergo laboratory testing to verify THC levels and meet labeling requirements, including disclosing ingredient information and potency.
  • Allows for the Production and Sale of Hemp-Derived CBD: The bill explicitly permits the production, processing, and retail sale of hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) products, providing consumers with access to these emerging wellness products.
  • Establishes a Hemp Research Program: The bill directs MDAR to create a Hemp Research Program to study the agronomic, economic, and environmental impacts of hemp cultivation in the Commonwealth.

Affected Parties

  • Farmers and agricultural producers who will be able to legally grow and process hemp crops
  • Manufacturers and retailers who will be able to produce, distribute, and sell hemp-derived products
  • Consumers who will gain access to a wider variety of hemp and CBD products
  • State regulators and enforcement agencies tasked with overseeing the new hemp industry

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 4, 2025 and has been reported favorably by the relevant committee, indicating progress towards potential passage.
  • If enacted, the bill would take effect 90 days after its passage, providing time for the MDAR to establish the necessary regulatory framework and licensing program.
  • The Hemp Research Program outlined in the bill would commence within one year of the bill's effective date.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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