Growing up: Florida's Hemp Program Turns 1 Year Old

Posted by Paul Rusnak|May 6, 2021

The State of Florida recently marked the one year anniversary of its hemp program, overseen by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The department and its Office of Cannabis manages and regulates Florida’s hemp program and cannabis products, including CBD.

“Florida’s state hemp program is leading the way in creating great jobs, safe and useful products, and a bright future for this new industry, says State Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, a champion of the local cannabis industry. “In its first year alone, hemp in Florida has created an estimated $370 million economic impact, supported more than 9,000 jobs, and generated more than $17 million in federal, state, and local tax revenue.”

What’s Next?

In 2021, FDACS will put increased emphasis on consumer outreach and education in multiple languages for diverse audiences, which includes a bilingual hemp education video in Spanish and English.

In addition, Fried points to enhanced support of hemp producers, processors, and retailers in meeting consumer needs and increasing demand. “We will also advance research and testing, ensuring Florida hemp products meet the rigorous quality and safety standards that the law requires and consumers deserve. I’m proud of our department’s work on this new green economic driver, and I believe that Floridians will enjoy the benefits of this commodity for generations to come.”

Since FDACS began accepting applications to grow industrial hemp on April 27, 2020, Florida has approved more than 800 hemp cultivation permits for farmers in 65 of Florida’s 67 counties, with more than 30,000 acres approved for planting.