Colorado Gov. Jared Polis is cheering the release of a state report that state officials say will enhance hemp research and development in the state.

The governor announced the completion of the Colorado Hemp Advancement and Management Plan (CHAMP) report, which was prepared by several state agencies and Colorado State University scientists.

The report will serve as a blueprint for large-scale initiatives to advance and manage the new industry, including promoting research and development in seed genetics and cultivation, developing and advocating increased industrial processing and uses, privatizing laboratory testing, and increasing access to financial and insurance resources, according to the state Department of Agriculture.

“Colorado is a clear national leader for industrial hemp, and the CHAMP report will serve as a key tool to further our leadership," Polis said. "We want Colorado to continue to be the best state for industrial hemp which will help our rural communities thrive. The report also identifies key initiatives that Colorado can share with other states to standardize the hemp industry across the country.

“I’m particularly proud that this project brought many voices to the table from across the state to combine their expertise and knowledge, and to hear from others in the sector about common pain points and opportunities," he said.

The report was 18 months in the making and involved numerous discussions with stakeholders, state officials said. To read the full report and its recommendations, click here.