May 19, 1999
Honorable Daniel Inouye
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Senator Inouye:

This is in response to your inquiry of April 22, 1999, on behalf of Speaker of the Hawaii House of Representatives, Calvin K.Y. Say, regarding the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) policy regarding the cultivation of industrial hemp and the review of the security regulations governing such cultivation. It is our understanding that Hawaii recently enacted legislation authorizing the experimental cultivation of hemp.

A number of states have expressed an interest in the cultivation of industrial hemp. Because cultivation of hemp involves THC, a Schedule I controlled substance, registration with DEA as a manufacturer is required. DEA is currently reviewing the security regulations for a Schedule I manufacturer in order to establish standards for the cultivation of hemp. The security standards will insure that the cultivation will not result in the diversion of any controlled substance material. Until this review is completed, DEA will require applicants who wish to cultivate hemp to provide a security proposal which outlines reasonable and effective security controls to prevent access to, and pilferage from, the crop. As needed, DEA staff is available to work with an applicant to ensure that appropriate controls are established. If an applicant establishes adequate security controls and satisfies the other requirements for registration, DEA will issue a registration to cultivate 0.3 percent THC hemp for industrial uses.

I hope this addresses your concerns. If I may be of further assistance to you in this matter, please do not hesitate to contract me.

Sincerely,

Thomas A. Constantine, Administrator