ND Department of Agriculture Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SEPTEMBER 29, 2006

DEADLINE FOR COMMENTS ON HEMP RULES EXTENDED

BISMARCK –The comment period on proposed rules governing the production and processing of industrial hemp in North Dakota has been extended until October 30, 2006, Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson announced Friday.

The North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) conducted a public hearing on the proposed rules on June 15, 2006.  “We made a number of changes to the proposed rules following the hearing,” Johnson said.  “The comment period extension will provide interested parties with additional time to review the proposed rules and to submit written comments to the department.”

The proposed rules can be viewed on the North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) website at www.agdepartment.com and clicking on “Hot Topics.”  A copy of the rules can also be obtained by contacting the NDDA by mail or e-mail at:  NDDA, Attn:  Ken Junkert, 600 E Boulevard Ave, Dept. 602, Bismarck, ND  58505 or kjunkert@nd.gov.

Since 1995, the North Dakota Legislature has passed a number of bills dealing with industrial hemp production. The proposed rules would provide a framework for administration of these laws.

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MEDIA:  For more information, please contact Ken Junkert at (701) 328-2231 or kjunkert@nd.gov.