I agree that hemp is a product with myriad uses, and would be sure to be a massive cash crop. I see a couple of problems with getting current laws changed or reversed, however.

First, you have resistance from other companies that would stand to lose money if hemp became a national cash crop. For instance, you can make paper out of hemp. There goes money for the logging industry. They'll fight for that.

Second, many of the advocates of the legalization of hemp (at least many of the ones I've actually met and spoken to) also seem to have a problem differentiating between hemp and marijuana. They seem to think that by pushing for this type of legislation will allow them to smoke out without being arrested for it. With representation like this, the cause for hemp legalization is hurt rather than helped.

Now if the tobacco companies could be convinced that lobbying for hemp legalization would provide their businesses with an alternate cash crop should they lose too much revenue from the anti-smoking campaigns...that would be a definite advantage. It's always good to have big business on your side.