NY To Hold Forum On Industrial Hemp

ITHACA, N.Y. (AP) — New York state is convening another summit of scientists, business people and farmers as part of its effort to boost hemp production and processing in the state.

Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo says Wednesday's meeting on the campus of Cornell University builds on earlier investments in the industry, which has long been held back by laws criminalizing marijuana.

Hemp is a variety of cannabis that lacks the chemical compounds sought by recreational marijuana users. Supporters of the industry say it has great potential as a material for textiles and other products.

The state has already invested millions of dollars in the industry. Cuomo is calling for more than $2 million in new funding to for a breeding program intended to focus on strains of hemp best suited for New York's climate.