Nick Reisman reports for New York State of Politics that New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a bill Dec. 9 establishing a regulatory system for the sale and production of hemp and hemp-related products in the state. Cuomo also said he had plans to hold a hemp summit in January to discuss policies related in the industry. “The hemp industry in New York is exploding and with that growth comes a responsibility to regulate the industry in a way that helps ensure its long-term viability and protects consumers,” Cuomo said. “By establishing a regulatory framework for producing and selling hemp and hemp extract we can set the industry on a path to continued growth in a smart, safe way that empowers both farmers and consumers.” Laurie Villasuso, the CEO of the Orange County IDA said, “The Orange County IDA has re-imagined a portion of the former Mid-Orange Correctional facility into a successful hemp processing facility which has helped farmers across the Hudson Valley and has created businesses that hire New Yorkers and send products around the country. Read more about this story at New York State of Politics.