Austin, Texas-based Hometown Hero on Monday announced the launch of the Texas Hemp Business Council (THBC), a nonprofit trade association focused on advancing and protecting hemp-derived products in the Lone Star State. Hometown Hero is a veteran-supporting Cannabis business of hemp-derived THC and CBD products. 

In a statement, Cynthia Cabrera, chief strategy officer at Hometown Hero and THBC founding board member, noted that “Sales of hemp-derived cannabinoids in Texas generate more than $8 billion annually, and the industry employs 50,000 workers and contributes to a $22 billion supply chain.”

“We founded the Texas Hemp Business Council to help ensure that these consumer goods remain legal in Texas, while giving adult consumers and veterans continued access to hemp products that have become vital to their everyday lives.” — Cabrera in a press release 

The THBC says the group’s formation comes amid potential bans and overregulation of hemp-derived cannabinoids, including delta-8 and delta-9 THC products in Texas. 

Lukas Gilkey, CEO at Hometown Hero, added that a trade association is “essential” ahead of what he described as cannabusinesses’ “toughest fight so far” in the state.

“Whether it’s in the courts, statehouse, local agencies and even Congress, the Texas Hemp Business Council is committed to sensible regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoids that protects consumers, prohibits access by minors and safeguards the entire supply chain,” Gilkey said in a statement. 

In a video posted to YouTube last week, Gilkey called the THBC “an important step forward” for Texas Cannabis businesses in “representation in the legislative session” and keeping hemp-derived cannabinoid products legal in Texas.  

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