Hemp Law and Policy

Hemp Law and Policy - Professor Courtney Moran

• Course Number: LAW-483
• Course Type: Highly Specialized
• Credits: 2
• Enrollment Limit: 25
• Description: After 80 years of prohibition, hemp is now a federally legal agricultural commodity with emerging global markets. As farmers across the country incorporate hemp into their rotations, hemp is helping to bring back the family farm. The regulatory landscape of this “new” industry is quickly evolving with legal issues constantly emerging, demanding focus, attention and continued targeted advocacy across the value chain.

  Operating in a legal framework constrained by concerns with illegal marijuana, hemp stakeholders and the attorneys advising them must navigate the nuances of continuously evolving regulations that impact day-to-day operations. With thousands of uses for hemp, from three main cultivation areas (grain, fiber, and cannabinoids), the opportunities within the industry are almost endless.

  This class surveys both the historical and current hemp legal framework. We will discuss the evolution of U.S. hemp regulation, including the development of both state and federal law. This course will take a unique approach with an inside look on development of policy, enacting legislation, engaging in rulemakings, and litigation that advances policy. Expert guest lecturers, including regulators and legislators, will provide real-world insight. Students will examine case law, statutory law, federal regulations, emerging market considerations, and pending legislation and rules.
• Prerequisite: none
• Evaluation Method: Student evaluation will be based, and grades assessed, upon a combination of class participation and a final project.
• Capstone: no
• WIE: no