Utah farmers and entrepreneurs compete to grow medical pot

NEHPI, Utah (AP) — Dozens of applicants are vying for one of a handful of coveted spots as state-licensed medical marijuana growers in conservative Utah.

State officials expect to award up to 10 licenses later this month. Among the 81 applicants are larger operations already growing hemp in the state, and a handful of out-of-state growers.

Utah officials project medical marijuana revenues to reach $5.4 million in 2020 then grow to $16.2 million in 2021.

Utah joined 33 states to legalize medical marijuana after voters approved a new law last year.