GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Arguments will be heard by a federal judge next month on the Menominee Indian Tribe’s lawsuit against the federal government over a hemp-growing operation.
Court records indicate that oral arguments are scheduled for May 13 before Judge William Griesbach.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration raided tribal land last October, destroying hemp plants. Tribal officials said it was growing hemp for research purposes. However, the DEA reported it confiscated 30,000 high-grade marijuana plants.
The difference between marijuana and industrial hemp is THC level. Industrial hemp has a lower THC level, preventing anyone from getting a high from it. It’s used to make things like clothes and building materials.
The tribe sued the DEA and U.S. DOJ, seeking a federal court ruling declaring its industrial hemp growing operation legal under the federal 2014 Farm Bill. The federal government has asked for the suit to be thrown out.
The May 13 hearing on motions to dismiss the case, and on a motion for summary judgment. Arguments are scheduled to last two hours.
