MDARD Issues a Regulatory Reminder Regarding Industrial Hemp

Michigan Hemp Industries and Farming Association

7.12.19

Now that summer has finally arrived, and hemp has been planted across the state, MDARD has issued a reminder to growers and processor handlers about some key regulatory items:

SIGNAGE AND POSTING

  1. Section 10(3) of Public Act 641 of 2018 requires growers to post signage in a visible location at each boundary line of a hemp growing location. The signage must include the following:
    1. The statement, “Industrial Hemp Registered with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.”
    2. The registered grower’s name
    3. The registered grower’s registration number

THC CONCENTRATION TESTING

  1. Section 14 of Public Act 641 requires growers who intend to harvest an industrial hemp crop to have a sample of their crop analyzed by a testing facility not less than 15 days before the intended harvest. The purpose of the sample and analysis is to confirm compliance with the legal requirement that the THC level is 0.3% or less. 
  2. MDARD is currently finalizing its emergency rules on testing standards.  

In the meantime, please note the following:

  1. It is the grower’s responsibility to obtain and submit a sample of their hemp crop not less than 15 days before they intend to harvest.
  2. Although not required by law, a grower may submit samples more frequently to monitor THC levels.
  3. Per Section 10(5) a grower may transfer up to 2-1/2 ounces of industrial hemp per transfer to a testing facility for the purpose of measuring THC, cannabidiol, or other phytocannabinoid levels.
  4. Testing must include quantitative laboratory determination of the delta-9 THC concentration on a dry weight basis. All tests shall be performed post-decarboxylation.
  5. MDARD’s Geagley Laboratory in East Lansing is set up and ready to receive hemp samples.

Instructions for submitting samples will be released soon.

PROOF OF LICENSURE

  1. Section 10(5) and 11(3) require growers and processor-handlers to provide a copy of their registration/license upon request by a MDARD representative or law Enforcement.
  2. Keep a copy of your registration/license handy at all times and share it when you are asked.

STARTING AND CANNABIS OR HEMP BUSINESS?
Komorn Law – You will need an attorney – Call 248-357-2550 to schedule an appointment.

See the MSU info about the Production of Hemp 101

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