Massachusetts § 117 - Industrial hemp; regulation; acquisition of seed
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 117 — Industrial hemp; regulation; acquisition of seed, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 117. Industrial hemp; regulation; acquisition of seed
Section 117. (a) Industrial hemp may be planted, grown, harvested, possessed, processed, bought, sold or researched subject to sections 116 to 123, inclusive. The planting, growing, harvesting, possessing, processing, selling or research of industrial hemp as an agricultural product shall be subject to the supervision and approval of the department pursuant to sections 116 to 123, inclusive.
(b) A person planting, growing, harvesting, possessing, processing or selling industrial hemp for commercial purposes shall: (i) be licensed by the department pursuant to section 118; and (ii) only acquire hemp seeds from a distributor approved by the department.
(c) Industrial hemp shall only be used for the following: (i) research purposes; and (ii) commercial purposes considered reasonable by the commissioner.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 117
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 117 cover?
Section 117 ("Industrial hemp; regulation; acquisition of seed") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 117?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 117" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 117 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.