Hemp is a non-drug variety of the cannabis plant — the marijuana plant — used for a range of consumer products, including rope, fabric, paper, soap and food. The bill would remove low-drug content hemp from federal classification as a Schedule I controlled substance.

The Republican pair is joined by “Oregon Democratic Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden in introducing legislation to allow American farmers to cultivate and profit from industrial hemp,” according to a statement from McConnell’s office.

“I am proud to introduce legislation with my friend Rand Paul that will allow Kentucky farmers to harness the economic potential that industrial hemp can provide,” the Senate minority leader said in the statement. “During these tough economic times, this legislation has the potential to create jobs and provide a boost to Kentucky’s economy and to our farmers and their families.”