April 29, 2023

The Hemp Industries Association: A Key Advocate for Cannabis

Join Hometown Hero CEO and Co-Founder Lukas Gilkey as he sits down with Jody McGinness, director of the Hemp Industries Association, as they discuss the impact of this influential nonprofit organization:

The Hemp Industries Association

Founded in 1994, the Hemp Industries Association (HIA) is a nonprofit consisting of farmers, businesses, and consumers dedicated to pushing the maximum potential of hemp equitably and sustainably in the United States and Canada. They do this by monitoring federal policy and regulatory developments while providing advocacy tools for those looking to get involved and take action. The HIA had just 45 members at its founding, but four years later, that number rose to over 200.

Jack Herer

Jack Herer was a prominent cannabis rights activist who authored the book The Emperor Wears No Clothes. Interestingly enough, he wasn't always in support of cannabis. However, all that changed when he tried it for the first time in 1969. After that moment, he dedicated his life's work to fighting for legalization and destigmatizing cannabis. Jack Herer's advocacy continues to inspire those fighting for legality and access to cannabis. And if you're familiar with our HHC products, our Blue Raz flavor uses live rosin from a hemp version of the Jack Herer cannabis strain.

Stay Updated on New Developments in Hemp

For nearly 30 years, the HIA has helped bolster businesses and advocates for a remarkable plant that has positively impacted many lives. If you are interested in current hemp developments and insider perspectives for advocacy and legislation, you can check out other installments of this series in our previous blog posts, including: