LEXINGTON HERALD-LEADER Lexington, Kentucky
September 9, 1998
Editorial Page
Letter to the Editor
Hemp has potential
On July 24, National Public Radio's local news and the Herald-Leader reported that Gov. Paul Patton developed a new committee for helping small farmers but that hemp was not on their agenda because the governor is "convinced" that hemp cannot be differentiated from marijuana. With due respect, I was embarrassed for the governor and Kentuckians. I am a member of Co-op America, a non-profit corporation in Washington, D.C. The Co-op helps socially and environmentally responsible businesses thrive. Those businesses include hemp industries. There are many sources that explain the difference between hemp and marijuana. Hemp has proven profitable with a positive future in Canada for farmers, wholesalers and retailers. Consumers feel good about the purchases.
Also note that columnist John Ed Pearce in the Aug. 9 Herald-Leader wrote, "And there is a chance that the state will come to its senses and start growing hemp." Our legislators repeatedly say this is a dead issue and refuse to educate themselves.The governor should find himself an informed advisor in regard to hemp. Environmental justice will not cause our kids to smoke rope.Delia Montgomery
Lexington, Ky.
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