DENVER ~ In a recent vote, members of Congress have approved a provision that would restrict the hemp industry in Colorado and across the country. This decision has been met with disappointment from Governor Jared Polis, who released a statement expressing his concerns.

"Hemp is a symbol of the American spirit," Governor Polis stated. "George Washington grew hemp and Betsy Ross sewed some of the first American flags out of hemp fiber. It's disappointing to see the federal government leading with fear rather than a vision for the future, and cutting off access to a variety of hemp-based products."

Governor Polis also highlighted the positive impact that hemp farmers have had on Colorado's economy, as well as his own advocacy for the industry during his time in Congress. He mentioned including hemp in the 2014 Farm Bill and flying a hemp flag over the United States Capitol on Independence Day.

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The provision restricting the hemp industry was included in the Continuing Resolution (CR) that ended the government shutdown. Colorado Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper voted against its inclusion in the Senate, while Representatives Gabe Evans, Jeff Crank, Lauren Boebert, and Jeff Hurd all voted in favor of it in the House.

However, not all members of Colorado's delegation were in agreement. Representatives Diana DeGette, Joe Neguse, Jason Crow, and Brittany Pettersen all voted against including this provision in the CR.

This decision has sparked criticism from Governor Polis towards those who claim to support business and job growth but continue to stifle growth and innovation through their actions.

Colorado has been at the forefront of progress in the hemp industry with initiatives such as their groundbreaking Colorado Hemp Advancement & Management Plan. It remains to be seen how this restriction will affect their efforts moving forward.

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