Rhiannon Dee Yard, MBA
Founder & CEO of Green Gaia Innovations, LLC, DBA: Hemp Gaia
Policy Proposal:
Advocate for policies that support the interstate sale of hemp and hemp-derived products by aligning Texas laws with federal regulations and the regulatory frameworks of other states. This alignment would involve updating state laws to match the provisions of the 2018 Farm Bill and establishing clear guidelines for the interstate transport and sale of hemp products.
Why It’s Important:
The ability to engage in interstate commerce is crucial for the economic viability and growth of hemp businesses in Texas. As the hemp industry continues to expand, businesses will need access to broader markets beyond state lines to ensure sustained growth and profitability. However, inconsistencies between state and federal regulations, as well as differing laws across states, create significant barriers to interstate commerce for hemp products.
By aligning Texas hemp laws with federal regulations and those of other states, Texas can facilitate smoother interstate transactions, reduce legal ambiguities, and promote the growth of its hemp industry. This alignment would not only provide clarity and security for Texas businesses but also position Texas as a leader in the national hemp market.
Proposed Initiatives:
- Legal Harmonization:
- Update State Laws: Work with the Texas legislature to amend state hemp laws to fully align with the 2018 Farm Bill, particularly regarding the definition of hemp, allowable THC limits, and the legality of interstate transport.
- Interstate Agreements: Encourage the development of interstate agreements with neighboring states to establish mutually recognized standards for hemp products, including testing, labeling, and quality control measures.
- Regulatory Consistency:
- Standardized Testing and Labeling: Push for the adoption of standardized testing protocols and labeling requirements that are consistent with federal guidelines. This would ensure that Texas hemp products meet the same quality standards as those in other states, facilitating easier interstate commerce.
- Clear Transport Guidelines: Advocate for clear guidelines on the interstate transport of hemp products, ensuring that Texas businesses can move their products across state lines without fear of legal repercussions or confiscation.
- Market Access Expansion:
- Promote Export Opportunities: Support initiatives that promote Texas hemp products in other states and internationally, helping local businesses expand their market reach. This could include participation in trade shows, marketing campaigns, and partnerships with out-of-state distributors.
- Economic Incentives: Explore the possibility of offering economic incentives, such as tax breaks or grants, to Texas hemp businesses that successfully engage in interstate commerce and export their products to other states.
- Advocacy and Education:
- Federal Lobbying Efforts: Work with industry groups and other stakeholders to lobby for federal policies that support interstate commerce for hemp products, including the removal of any remaining legal or regulatory barriers.
- Industry Education: Provide resources and education to Texas hemp businesses on the legal requirements and best practices for engaging in interstate commerce, including compliance with the laws of other states and federal regulations.
Conclusion:
Interstate commerce is a vital component of the future success of the Texas hemp industry. By aligning state laws with federal regulations and those of other states, Texas can create a more favorable environment for hemp businesses to thrive in the national market. This alignment will help reduce legal uncertainties, facilitate broader market access, and ensure that Texas remains competitive in the rapidly evolving hemp industry.
© 2024 Rhiannon Yard. All rights reserved.