§1496. Use of funds

            Funds made available to the commissioner shall be expended to effectuate the purposes of this Part including but not limited to the following uses:

            (1) To attract additional business associated with the industrial hemp industry to Louisiana including processors.

            (2) To develop and promote Louisiana industrial hemp brands or marketing campaigns.

            (3) To aid in the development of a coordinated research plan designed to develop higher quality industrial hemp seeds and plants best suited for cultivation within the state, new and improved uses for industrial hemp, and best management practices.

            (4) To develop educational programs and disseminate educational materials about industrial hemp.

            (5) To support the enhancement and maintenance of public-use industrial hemp facilities, specifically those used for the purposes of promotion and research.

            (6) To promote activities, facilities, events, and the needs of the Louisiana industrial hemp industry.

            (7) To contract for scientific research with accredited postsecondary education institutions, or similar educational institutions, and industrial hemp licensees authorized to conduct industrial hemp research under this Chapter that will assist in carrying out the purposes of the program, including industrial hemp best management practices.

            Acts 2022, No. 462, §1.