KNOXVILLE (WATE) – It could be about a year before farmers grow their first hemp crops in Tennessee. Until then, the bill’s sponsor, state Republican Senator Frank Niceley, is trying to answer questions farmers might have about the new law.

When Governor Bill Haslam signed the bill into law, it specified that the crops would only be used for research and development purposes. Niceley told 6 News it’s up to the Department of Agriculture and universities, like the University of Tennessee, to hash out the details before farmers get thrown in the mix.

Will Coley owns a specialty farm in Maryville where he raises rare chickens, rabbits and ducks. Coley is looking to expand what his farm offers by growing hemp, which is known as “marijuana’s cousin.” [Read More]