Tagged: James Comer

Kentucky’s agriculture commissioner says comprehensive immigration reform would have a tremendous impact on the state’s farmers and livestock producers. James Comer says if it weren’t for immigrant labor, many Kentucky farmers wouldn’t be able to harvest their crops.

Support for industrial hemp is growing in Kentucky behind the efforts of Agriculture Commissioner James Comer. With last week's endorsement from U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, Comer now has the majority of the state’s federal delegation behind him.

Both senators and half of the state's congressmen have publicly endorsed legalizing industrial hemp. They say Kentucky is well-suited to be a leader in growing hemp for fiber and oil. But the push does have its opponents.

Another supporter has come out in favor of industrial hemp in Kentucky. The state’s largest business group, the Kentucky Chamber, announced today that it supports hemp as a crop for oil and fiber.

Kentucky Agriculture Secretary James Comer said recent measures in Washington and Colorado to legalize marijuana use will only strengthen efforts to allow industrial hemp in the commonwealth.

Marijuana and hemp are considered cousins. Hemp is grown for its fiber and oil and it can'’t be used as a drug like marijuana can.

One of the key republicans in state government believes change in legislative leadership is a good thing.  Long time Senate President David Williams recently resigned to take on judicial responsibilities in his home region. Agriculture Department Commissioner Jamie Comer moved from the legislature to take his current job. Comer favors restricting tenure in leadership positions.