03/15/2017 01:00 PM House RESOURCES
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| HB46 | |
| HB172 | |
| Adjourn |
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| *+ | HB 46 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | HB 172 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| += | HB 87 | TELECONFERENCED | |
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
HOUSE RESOURCES STANDING COMMITTEE
March 15, 2017
4:09 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Andy Josephson, Co-Chair
Representative Geran Tarr, Co-Chair
Representative Dean Westlake, Vice Chair
Representative Harriet Drummond
Representative Justin Parish
Representative Chris Birch
Representative DeLena Johnson
Representative George Rauscher
Representative David Talerico
MEMBERS ABSENT
Representative Mike Chenault (alternate)
Representative Chris Tuck (alternate)
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
HOUSE BILL NO. 46
"An Act relating to the state and municipal procurement
preferences for agricultural products harvested in the state and
fisheries products harvested or processed in the state; relating
to the sale of milk, milk products, raw milk, and raw milk
products; and providing for an effective date."
- HEARD & HELD
HOUSE BILL NO. 172
"An Act relating to the regulation and production of industrial
hemp; relating to industrial hemp pilot programs; providing that
industrial hemp is not included in the definition of
'marijuana'; and clarifying that adding industrial hemp to food
does not create an adulterated food product."
- HEARD & HELD
HOUSE BILL NO. 87
"An Act relating to participation in matters before the Board of
Fisheries and the Board of Game by the members of the respective
boards; and providing for an effective date."
BILL HEARING CANCELED
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: HB 46
SHORT TITLE: PROCURE AK FISH/AG PROD.; ALASKA GROWN
SPONSOR(s): REPRESENTATIVE(s) TARR
01/18/17 (H) PREFILE RELEASED 1/13/17
01/18/17 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/18/17 (H) STA, RES, FIN
03/08/17 (H) SPONSOR SUBSTITUTE INTRODUCED-REFERRALS
03/08/17 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
03/08/17 (H) RES, FIN
03/15/17 (H) RES AT 1:00 PM BARNES 124
BILL: HB 172
SHORT TITLE: INDUSTRIAL HEMP PRODUCTION LICENSES
SPONSOR(s): REPRESENTATIVE(s) DRUMMOND
03/10/17 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
03/10/17 (H) RES, JUD
03/15/17 (H) RES AT 1:00 PM BARNES 124
WITNESS REGISTER
JOHANNA HERRON, Development Specialist
Division of Agriculture
Department of Natural Resources
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 46.
BRYCE WRIGLEY, President
Alaska Farm Bureau, Inc.
Delta Junction, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 46.
AUTHUR KEYES, Director
Division of Agriculture
Department of Natural Resources
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 46.
PATRICK FITZGERALD, Staff
Representative Harriet Drummond
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: On behalf of Representative Drummond,
sponsor, introduced HB 172.
ROB CARTER, Program Manager
Plant Materials Center
Division of Agriculture
Department of Natural Resources
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Answered questions during the hearing of HB
172.
BRYCE WRIGLEY, President
Alaska Farm Bureau, Inc.
Delta Junction, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 172.
SARA CHAMBERS, Acting Director
Juneau Office
Alcohol & Marijuana Control Office
Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Answered a question during the hearing on
HB 172.
ACTION NARRATIVE
4:09:58 PM
CO-CHAIR ANDY JOSEPHSON called the House Resources Standing
Committee meeting to order at 4:09 p.m. Representatives
Josephson, Birch, Parish, Talerico, Drummond, Johnson, Tarr, and
Westlake were present at the call to order. Representative
Rauscher arrived as the meeting was in progress.
HB 46-PROCURE AK FISH/AG PROD.; ALASKA GROWN
4:10:44 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON announced that the first order of business
would be HOUSE BILL NO. 46, "An Act relating to the state and
municipal procurement preferences for agricultural products
harvested in the state and fisheries products harvested or
processed in the state; relating to the sale of milk, milk
products, raw milk, and raw milk products; and providing for an
effective date." [Before the committee was Sponsor Substitute
for House Bill 46, read across the House floor on 3/8/17.]
4:10:51 PM
CO-CHAIR GERAN TARR, Alaska State Legislature, as prime sponsor,
informed the committee HB 46 amends the Alaska products
preference statute and gives receipt authority to the Division
of Agriculture, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), so that
it may market the Alaska Grown logo on certain items to support
its operations. She said a short history of the topic is
included in the committee packet, noting that there are many
organizations in the state interested in agriculture issues -
including the Alaska Farm Bureau, Inc. (Farm Bureau) and the
Alaska Food Policy Council - that are working on food security
and improving opportunities in the agriculture industry. The
organizations brought to her attention the Alaska products
procurement preference statute [AS 29.71.040], which currently
establishes a 7 percent preference.
CO-CHAIR TARR explained state procurement rules require that
purchases using state dollars must be for the lowest cost items.
However, the product preference statute was enacted to recognize
that Alaska Grown agricultural and fisheries products cost more
than those purchased Outside due to economies of scale and food
distribution systems. To complete the research needed for the
bill, in 2014 she submitted an audit request to the Legislative
Budget and Audit Committee, and the audit [provided in the
committee packet, labeled Audit Control Number 02-30080-15,
7/10/15, 2015], concluded that the existing 7 percent preference
is not enough of a deferential to provide an opportunity for
purchasing Alaska Grown products, and she gave an example. Page
20 [Exhibit 5] of the audit showed prices for Alaska Grown
products compared to non-Alaska items may be up to 30 percent
more. The audit also concluded that the procurement preference
statute is not well-understood, and the sponsor, with the
guidance of the Farm Bureau, seeks to ensure more farmers are on
the list of vendors and to keep information current on the
availability of their products. As an aside, Co-Chair Tarr
noted that a state procurement officer is working to update the
request for proposal (RFP) to clarify the product preference
statute and thereby encourage proposals from local applicants.
CO-CHAIR TARR, returning to the bill, stressed that individuals,
the state, and municipalities spend billions of dollars on food,
and purchasing food produced in Alaska is good for local
economies, local businesses, and is healthier. Because relying
on sales at farmers' markets is a challenge, Alaska farmers
broaden their customer base through community supported
agriculture (CSA) programs. However, if the state were to act
as an "anchor tenant" and significantly increase demand, farmers
could grow more and rely on a contract from a state entity to
purchase their fresh produce. Thus, [sections 2-5] of the bill
raise preference percentages from 7 percent to 15 percent, which
may enable business owners to provide high volumes of products
for a stable customer. Turning attention to [section 1] of the
bill, she said all the state agencies are seeking efficiencies
and methods to decrease state funding. However, DNR does not
have receipt authority, and thus receives no benefit from the
licenses it grants to private businesses for the use of the very
popular Alaska Grown logo; the bill gives DNR the authority to
market merchandise directly through the Division of Agriculture,
in the same manner as the Division of Parks and Outdoor
Recreation (Alaska State Parks), DNR.
4:21:47 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked how much more economic activity
would result from local food purchases that would be enabled by
the legislation.
CO-CHAIR TARR responded that if Alaskans bought $5 more per week
of Alaska Grown products, it would bring an additional $188
million into the Alaska economy. Currently, Alaskans spend over
$4.5 billion each year on food, but spend only 5 percent on food
produced in the state. At one point Alaskans produced over 50
percent of the food consumed in the state, and now there is a
renewed interest in supporting local farmers through sales at
farmers' markets.
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH asked for clarification on whether the
state, school districts, and municipalities are required to pay
a 15 percent premium on affected products.
CO-CHAIR TARR said there is no requirement that the
aforementioned entities would have to purchase Alaska Grown
products, or to purchase a 15 percent volume of certain
products; the bill permits said entities to choose other than
the lowest cost item if it is an Alaskan Grown product.
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH estimated a 15 percent preference would
cost entities "$100 million in mark-ups, if you will." He
opined the merits of Alaska Grown products sell themselves, and
he cautioned against compelling the state, a municipality, or a
school district to pay a premium and jeopardize its budget.
CO-CHAIR TARR agreed that entities should not be required to
participate.
4:26:34 PM
REPRESENTATIVE JOHNSON asked for an estimate on the volume of
products that are purchased at 7 percent "above the
competition."
CO-CHAIR TARR returned attention to page 20 [Exhibit 5] of the
above referenced audit, and pointed out the amount purchased at
7 percent is minimal because 7 percent is too low, and she
further described the preference program. [To provide an
example of why 7 percent is too low] she explained that the
audit indicated that the price for Alaska Grown broccoli is over
30 percent higher than broccoli from an Outside source. Her
research indicated that the increase to 15 percent would allow
entities to "spend a few dollars more to purchase this Alaska
Grown product."
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND observed that denser products are
cheaper; in fact, Alaska Grown potatoes are almost 50 percent
cheaper than imported. She stated her support and related her
experience that Alaska procurement preference is unlawful when
pertaining to products that are not manufactured in Alaska. She
added that Alaska Grown products are healthier, and with the
price savings on carrots, cabbages, and potatoes, buyers should
be able to make up for the difference in price.
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER expressed his interest in the bill.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHNSON directed attention to Section 5 and
questioned whether a 15 percent preference needs to apply to
fish.
CO-CHAIR TARR explained both fisheries and agricultural products
are in the same section of existing statute, so yes. She
recalled there was a special grant program for school districts'
lunch programs, which was expanded to include fish products;
however, grant dollars were applied to both.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHNSON cautioned against the government
supplementing its income by competing against local businesses,
because the government is an unfair competitor to a private
individual. Her general stance is that it is an unfair business
practice for government to compete against a private individual.
CO-CHAIR TARR acknowledged the same concern arose pertaining to
previous legislation affecting Alaska State Parks. She pointed
out private manufacturers would produce products for state
entities to market at a slight increase in price. In addition,
a strong marketing program raises interest in aspects of
government such as state parks.
4:35:44 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TALERICO also recalled the legislature's approval
last year of the [marketing receipt] license for Alaska State
Parks and acknowledged [the state marketing of merchandise] is a
sensitive issue.
CO-CHAIR TARR informed the committee the Alaska State Parks
legislation was chosen as a model for HB 46 because it was
highly scrutinized; however, any program is subject to future
review. She related how interest in agriculture has increased
in the past 20 years.
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH inquired as to what revenues are derived by
the state from [agriculture].
CO-CHAIR TARR replied that the Plant Materials Center, Division
of Agriculture, DNR, provides inspections of forestry products
for export and inspections of seed potatoes, which are necessary
to ensure seed potatoes are disease-free.
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH directed attention to the bill on page 2,
line 2, which read [in part]:
from either an Alaska bidder or a person that employs
prisoners
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH inquired as to the "backstory" of the
foregoing language.
CO-CHAIR TARR advised at one time the state had stronger
programs for people incarcerated and working in correctional
industries. For example, there are people working in a meat
packing facility and there is a program for low-risk individuals
to work in fishing processing on the Kenai Peninsula.
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked for affirmation that in section 1,
the bill provides the commissioner of DNR with the authority to
sell Alaska Grown trademarked goods, and to license the
trademark, for a fee, to private businesses in order to provide
an incentive to market the trademark.
CO-CHAIR TARR clarified that a marketer must have specific
receipt authority [in order to market trademarked merchandise].
4:41:19 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH continued that the remainder of the bill
provides authority to municipalities, schools, and the state to
purchase Alaska Grown products at a slightly higher price
differential. He questioned the sponsor's 30 percent estimate
pertaining to the growth of local economies, because local
economies would not grow only by $750 million, due to the
"multiplier effect after that"; in fact, there would be more
farmers able to purchase goods and services, and he asked if the
multiplier, and the number of jobs created thereby, are known.
CO-CHAIR TARR observed that a firm would need to be hired to
assess the multiplier effect; however, the factors provided in
the sponsor statement reflect statewide Alaska purchasing for
individuals, institutions, municipalities, and school districts.
She spoke of the potential benefit [of increased agriculture and
fisheries] on the younger generation of Alaskans, and those who
live and work in agriculture.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHNSON redirected attention to the bill on page
2, line 2 [text previously provided] and asked whether AS
33.30.191(b) relates to Alaskan prisoners.
CO-CHAIR TARR said yes.
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER inquired as to the DNR commissioner's
opinion of the bill.
CO-CHAIR TARR said the commissioner of DNR, the director of the
Division of Agriculture, and staff have indicated support for
the bill.
4:45:18 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER asked how many prisoners are employed
statewide.
CO-CHAIR TARR explained there are fewer programs of this type
than in the past due to budget cuts; she added that the programs
provide training for prisoners and would hopefully lead to
gainful employment and less recidivism.
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER reported Sutton has utilized prisoners
and agreed they need an opportunity to work in society.
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND, speaking as a graphic designer, assured
the committee the Alaska Grown logo produced for the Division of
Agriculture earned a high price, and added that digital artwork
deteriorates and requires money to maintain its quality. She
stated the fact that Alaska only produces 5 percent of the food
consumed in the state is a food safety and food security issue,
and importing vegetables over many miles is a nutritional issue.
CO-CHAIR TARR agreed that food security is a critical issue. In
response to Representative Birch, she said brewery products
carry the Made in Alaska brand and are not an Alaska Grown
product.
4:50:42 PM
JOHANNA HERRON, Development Specialist, Division of Agriculture,
DNR, agreed that food security is an issue, along with food
safety, which is enhanced by the consumption of local products.
She pointed out that the state has many small growers who are
unable to buy marketing materials due to their expense and/or
inconvenience; in the past, the division has supplied marketing
materials - such as twist ties and stickers - from its budget or
through federal funds, and does not seek to compete with
[private] marketers. The goals of the bill are: enable
consumers to differentiate between local and nonlocal products;
supply marketing materials; provide a method for the division to
recover the costs of administering the program.
4:52:24 PM
BRYCE WRIGLEY, President, Alaska Farm Bureau, Inc. (Farm
Bureau), informed the committee he is also a producer farming in
Delta Junction, and expressed his support for both components
within HB 46. In response to Representative Parish's question
about a multiplier of economic benefit, he said agriculture
earns one of the highest multipliers of any industry, however,
the economic impact is contingent upon how closed the local
economy is, the flow of commerce, and the types of products
available. He advised that in most of the Lower 48, the
multiplier used is 4-5 and can be as high as 8. He
characterized Alaska as a closed economic system and said the
Farm Bureau uses a conservative multiplier of 2.13 to determine
the value of local products, thus $2.5 billion may be increased
by $750 million potential farm gate sales, which after a
multiplier is applied, grows to $1.6 billion in economic
activity. Mr. Wrigley added that the bill would also create
many jobs and opportunities for youth to participate in the
expansion of the market for agricultural products. The Farm
Bureau's goal is to create a more sustainable and secure food
future for Alaska, and he cautioned about the devastating effect
of a natural disaster; for example, in 1989 access to the Port
of Anchorage froze for one week and supplies in the stores were
depleted, and in 2012 the Alaska Highway was flooded for four
days, which affected food supplies in Fairbanks. However, he
pointed out that after a return to normal, worries about food
security are forgotten, and Alaska remains very vulnerable in an
emergency.
MR. WRIGLEY said the bill is one component in an effort to
stabilize and secure a local food system that will generate
jobs, encourage stability in rural areas, provide opportunities,
and secure food safety in an emergency. Turning to product
preference, he cautioned that although there is a cost, local
food in Alaska is a strategic resource unique to Alaska, because
every 3-4 years an event occurs that threatens the
transportation of food. He stressed the state's greatest
challenge is access to markets, and product preference is an
opportunity for producers to access markets that have been
dominated by distribution lines from the Lower 48; reaching the
goal of 25 percent of food coming from local markets and flowing
into the food chain would ensure that in an emergency the food
supply would be maintained. Mr. Wrigley advised that if small
producers are unable to gain access to distribution lines, the
state's buying power is necessary; in fact, most other states
have local marketing programs to promote and foster local foods.
He concluded that the state's influence in providing a market
larger than the farmers' markets will lead to more planting by
growers. Finally, he said the Farm Bureau is very interested in
having the Division of Agriculture hold receipt authority, as it
is very expensive for individual farmers and business owners to
purchase logo items.
5:03:47 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER asked what percentage of products that
are grown in Alaska is currently sold in supermarkets.
MR. WRIGLEY said he was unsure; 5 percent is used, but 1-2
percent is closer, he opined, and even fewer participate in the
Alaska Grown program. In further response to Representative
Rauscher, he stated most supermarkets do not carry Alaska Grown,
and a few chains carry produce, but less in meat, milk, and
flour products. Most of the products from his business are sold
in mom and pop stores or state chain groceries; although larger
chains express interest, it remains a challenge to have products
distributed by large chain supermarkets.
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER asked how much more products would cost
at a local store in a rural area.
MR. WRIGLEY restated some items are less expensive, such as
potatoes and cabbage. In villages, grocery stores are private
businesses and rural areas must deal with transportation
constraints, and he gave an example. Currently, some local
producers are working with major suppliers on access to
distribution lines to villages.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHNSON expressed her support of the division
director and the Alaska Grown program.
5:12:25 PM
AUTHUR KEYES, Director, Division of Agriculture, Department of
Natural Resources (DNR), stated that HB 46 provides a tremendous
opportunity for agriculture.
5:13:13 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON announced HB 46 was held over.
HB 172-INDUSTRIAL HEMP PRODUCTION LICENSES
5:13:34 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON announced that the final order of business
would be HOUSE BILL NO. 172, "An Act relating to the regulation
and production of industrial hemp; relating to industrial hemp
pilot programs; providing that industrial hemp is not included
in the definition of 'marijuana'; and clarifying that adding
industrial hemp to food does not create an adulterated food
product."
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND, speaking as prime sponsor of HB 172,
urged for passage of the bill.
5:14:34 PM
PATRICK FITZGERALD, Staff, Representative Harriet Drummond,
Alaska State Legislature, speaking on behalf of Representative
Drummond, prime sponsor, informed the committee HB 172 would
define industrial hemp under AS 03.05.100 as "all parts and
varieties of Cannabis sativa L. containing no more than 0.3
percent delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)," which would
classify hemp as a crop for the Division of Agriculture,
Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and allow the cultivation
of hemp products through a regulated pilot program. Section
7606 of the federal [Agricultural Act of 2014] allows industrial
hemp to be grown through a pilot program, and over 30 states
have taken advantage of the pilot program to explore domestic
and international markets. Although hemp shares many
similarities with marijuana, marijuana is used medically and
recreationally due to its high concentration of delta 9 THC;
however, under the classification within HB 172, hemp must have
less than 0.3 percent delta 9 THC. Mr. Fitzgerald explained
that the percentage of delta 9 THC is affected by how the plants
are grown; for example, marijuana requires delicate care in
order to produce a psychoactive effect. However, industrial
hemp would be planted, cultivated, and harvested in a manner
similar to that of wheat or barley, and thus have low THC
concentrations as stipulated by the legislation. Hemp has been
grown successfully in Alaska in the past, and the stock, seed,
and roots are sold for industrial use. He concluded that the
passage of HB 172 would incorporate a hemp crop into the state's
economy, which would expand markets in multiple industries,
create jobs, and raise state revenue.
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH asked why hemp cannot be grown now.
MR. FITZGERALD responded that hemp is currently classified as a
controlled substance through the Alcohol & Marijuana Control
Office. In further response to Representative Birch, he said
the bill will reclassify hemp with the Division of Agriculture -
and not as a controlled substance - as long as the percentage of
delta-9 THC remains below 0.3. In further response to
Representative Birch, he said it is against the law to grow hemp
as an industrial crop.
5:19:14 PM
REPRESENTATIVE WESTLAKE questioned why a registrant would be
required to retain sales records for three years.
MR. FITZGERALD explained the records are to comply with the
pilot program regulated by the federal Agricultural Act of 2014.
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND added that federal law also requires the
hemp farmer register the global positioning system (GPS)
coordinates of the crop location with the Division of
Agriculture.
5:20:25 PM
MR. FITZGERALD directed attention to a presentation entitled,
"HB 172 - Industrial Hemp," included in the committee packet.
He said the main points of the bill are:
· allows the host of the pilot program the opportunity to
grow, cultivate, transport, process, and market industrial
hemp
· changes the definition from the [Alcohol & Marijuana
Control Office] to the Division of Agriculture
· industrial hemp grows from the same plant as marijuana but
they are two distinct strains made by differences in
planting, habitat, cultivation, processing, and use
· hemp is mainly used for industrial purposes such as
textiles, farming, furniture, and livestock feed
· the cropping of hemp that HB 172 would allow is strictly
for industrial purposes and there is no intent to produce
marijuana to be sold for recreational consumption
· hemp has very low THC concentration, is versatile, and its
product is mostly derived from stock fibers
· marijuana has high THC concentration, requires specific
growing conditions, and the product is extracted from the
flower
· any hemp products above 0.3 percent delta-9 THC would not
be valid for production
· farmers must register GPS coordinates of crop locations
· licensing must be renewed annually
· three years of records must be kept by registrant
· introduction of industrial hemp to Alaska's economy would
create jobs, spur revenue, and incorporate a growing
industry
· hemp products are produced from every part of the plant
· rapid growth yields paper, textiles, and other products
more efficiently than timber, and leaves a smaller
footprint
· hemp products come from seeds, stalk, leaves, and roots,
but not the flower
· hemp was successfully grown in Alaska in the early 1900's
· HB 172 would benefit the state with economic expansion and
career opportunities
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON asked whether the bill would result in the
production of value-added finished products or in shipping
unfinished hemp out of the state.
MR. FITZGERALD said the pilot program allows both; the crop
could be marketed to local industries and the Division of
Agriculture would be authorized to ship the crop out of state.
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON asked about the current "culture surrounding
hemp and the acceptance of it."
5:25:24 PM
ROB CARTER, Program Manager, Plant Materials Center, Division of
Agriculture, DNR, expressed his belief that nationally and
internationally, industrial hemp is "gaining ground" after being
outlawed in the U.S. since 1932; members of the agricultural
community are interested in the crop as an addition to their
farm management plans.
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH directed attention to the fiscal note
[Identifier: HB172-DNR-PMC-03-10-17] that anticipates 25 farms
would apply for licenses, and asked for the locations of the
farms.
MR. CARTER said recently interest in farming hemp has been
growing, and he has been contacted by potential applicants from
Juneau, the Delta and Nenana regions, and the Matanuska-Susitna
valley.
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked for an estimate of how many people
would be directly employed by the farms.
MR. CARTER, based on his experience with farming, estimated a 5-
10 percent growth in agricultural workers; large growth would
result if processing facilities opened and exports of raw
industrial hemp and processed products began.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHNSON directed attention to the bill on page 3,
line 8, which read:
(c) The department may adopt regulations to
implement this section.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHNSON asked what agency, department, or
institution would issue the aforementioned regulations.
5:30:43 PM
MR. CARTER opined the Division of Agriculture is best qualified
to draft and complete the regulations.
REPRESENTATIVE JOHNSON suggested the sponsor insert the
regulatory agency in the bill.
REPRESENTATIVE WESTLAKE related his interest in producing energy
from biomass, noting that above the Arctic Circle willow regrows
in about five years. He asked about the growth rate for hemp,
and whether the crop could become a viable biomass product that
could be used to bring down the cost of energy in villages.
MR. FITZGERALD said the pilot program would determine the growth
rate of hemp in each location.
MR. CARTER added there is high potential; last year research in
Sweden showed significant production of biomass [from hemp]:
approximately 8,000 pounds per acre as a biodiesel fuel product
- a traditional producer such as canola produces about 120
gallons of oil per acre - and hemp seeds produced over 300
gallons per acre, along with a byproduct of 3 to 3.5 tons of
hemp meal supplement per acre.
5:34:21 PM
BRYCE WRIGLEY, President, Alaska Farm Bureau, Inc., expressed
amazement that the state recently voted to allow the production
of marijuana, yet continues to apply restrictions on the
production of hemp. Speaking from the prospective of farmers,
he said farmers seek to produce any viable crop, and urged for
passage of the bill.
5:36:14 PM
SARA CHAMBERS, Acting Director, Juneau Office, Alcohol &
Marijuana Control Office, Department of Commerce, Community &
Economic Development, in response to Co-Chair Josephson,
explained the Marijuana Control Board has not issued an opinion
on HB 172 but anticipates that there would be a strong working
relationship with the Division of Agriculture to draw
jurisdictional lines between the sister agencies through
regulations.
CO-CHAIR TARR announced public testimony would be heard at a
future meeting.
[HB 172 was held over with public testimony open.]
5:38:39 PM
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the committee, the House
Resources Standing Committee meeting was adjourned at 5:38 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| HB172 Sponsor Statement 3.13.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Fiscal Note - LAW-CRIM 3.13.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Fiscal Note -DCCED-AMCO 3.13.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Fiscal Note - DNR-PMC 3.14.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Ver A 3.14.17.PDF |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Section Analysis 3.14.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Supporting Document - Letter of support-Constance Fredenberg 3.14.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Supporting Document - Letter of Support-Jack Bennett 3.14.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB046 Sponsor Statement 3.14.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 46 |
| HB046 Ver J 3.14.17.PDF |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 46 |
| HB046 Fiscal Note - DOA - DGS 3.14.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 46 |
| HB046 Fiscal Note - DNR - AGS 3.14.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 46 |
| HB046 Supporting Docuemnt - A Performance Audit of the Alaska Agriculture and Fisheries Products Preference.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 46 |
| HB046 Supporting Document-AlaskaAgFacts08.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 46 |
| HB046 Supporting Document-Articles 3.14.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 46 |
| HB087 Supporting Document APHA 3.13.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HB087 Supporting Document - Letter of Support UFA 3.13.17.pdf |
HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HB087 ver R H FSH CS 3.12.17.PDF |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HB087 Support Lynch.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HB087 Oppose RHAK.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HB087 Summary of Changes A to R 2.17.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HB087 Sponsor Statement ver R 3.10.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HB087 Support SPC.pdf |
HFSH 2/14/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HB087 Support CDFU.pdf |
HFSH 2/14/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HB 87 |
| HJR012 Sponsor Statement 2.22.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Version D (FSH) 3.12.17.PDF |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Support - Alaska Trollers Association 2.27.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Support - Southeast Alaska Fishermen's Alliance 2.27.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Support - Petersburg Vessel Owners Association 2.27.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Support - Southeast Alaska Seiners Association 2.27.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Support - United Southeast Alaska Gillnetters 2.27.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Supporting Document-Alaska Dispatch News Article 2.22.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Supporting Document-Reps. Young and Defazio 2.22.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Supporting Document-Sen. Murkowski 2.22.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 ver A 2.22.17.PDF |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Support - United Fishermen of Alaska.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Supporting Document - Presentation House Resources Committee 3.12.17.pdf |
HFSH 2/28/2017 10:00:00 AM HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Supporting Document - Letter of Support from SalmonState.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Supporting Document - Letter of Support Nelson 3.13.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HJR012 Supporting Document - Letter of Support from Trojan 3.14.17_Redacted.pdf |
HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HJR 12 |
| HB032 Supporting Document - Sponsor Statement.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB032 version A 3.12.17.PDF |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB032 Fiscal Note - DEC 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - GMO Q & A 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - HB 92 - AK Trollers Association Letter of Support.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - HB 92 Consolidated Letters of Support 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - Info Graphic 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - Letter of Support for HB 92 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - News Article #2 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - News Article #3 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - News Article #4 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - News Article #5 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB32 Supporting Document - NY Times Article 3.12.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB032 Supporting Document - Letter of Support UFA 3.13.17.pdf |
HRES 3/13/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2017 3:00:00 PM HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 32 |
| HB172 Supporting Document - 2014 Farm Bill Sec. 7606 3.15.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Supporting Document - Letter of Support - Kenai Peninsula Borough 3.15.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Supporting Document - Letter of Support Kenai Soil & Water Conservation District 3.15.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Supporting Document - Industrial Hemp Updated Slide Presentation 3.15.17.pdf |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |
| HB172 Supporting Document - Modern-uses-for-cannabis-Chart3-640x453 3.15.17.jpg |
HRES 3/15/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/17/2017 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/20/2017 7:00:00 PM HRES 3/22/2017 6:00:00 PM |
HB 172 |