Cuomo signs NY hemp law; decision on extracts in food, beverages deferred

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law Monday that sets up a regulatory framework for the production and sale of hemp and hemp extracts in the state.

According to a statement from the governor’s office, the new law also requires hemp businesses to test and properly label products to safeguard consumers.

The law:

• Gives the state Department of Agriculture and Markets jurisdiction over hemp growers.
• Grants the Department of Health authority over hemp extracts.
• Requires sellers of hemp extract products to be registered with the state.
• Makes regulatory changes to ensure New York’s program conforms to the 2018 Farm Bill.
• Defers any decisions about whether hemp extracts, including CBD, can be added to food and beverages.

“By establishing a regulatory framework for producing and selling hemp and hemp extract, we can set the industry on a path to continued growth in a smart, safe way that empowers both farmers and consumers,” Cuomo said in a statement.

Cuomo also said the state plans to conduct a hemp summit in January with the goal of doing more work on hemp industry policies.