AUSTIN, Texas -- In just a couple weeks, Texas farmers can start applying to legally grow hemp, something that's been a long time coming for many who want to cash in on the potential cash crop.
- Application process for hemp growing in Texas starts soon
- U.S. Dept. of Agriculture recently approved Texas guidelines
- THC content must be limited
Hans Enriquez owns Lazy Daze Cafe in Austin where he specializes in CBD-infused coffee drinks. He wants to not only sell Texas-grown CBD products, but says he wants to grow the crop himself.
PREVIOUS: Texas Farmers Prepare for Hemp Growing
"We definitely are looking forward to Texas-made products with Texas hemp. We think it will stimulate the Texas economy as well as support the farmers," said Enriquez.
CBD comes from the hemp plant, and even though state lawmakers approved hemp production during the last legislative session, it's still not quite legal. Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved production guidelines submitted by the state. But some more rules and regulations need to be set. Mark Loeffler with the Texas Department of Agriculture says once production picks up, the economic trickle-down effect will benefit more than just the Texas farmer.
PREVIOUS: CBD Shop Owner Seeing Green After USDA Hemp Rules Drop
"There's going to be processors and transportation businesses that may profit from this, so we want all those businesses to come to Texas. We want those processors to come to Texas. We want the crop grown in Texas," said Leoffler.
Enriquez says he's hopeful to be approved for a growing permit before the spring season is underway.
Hemp grown in Texas can only contain 0.3 percent THC. That's the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. If a single plant tests hot, so to speak, officials say the entire crop must be destroyed by law enforcement.
Click the video link above to watch our interview with Zachary Maxwell. He's the President of Texas Hemp Growers, a self-funded group that travels the state to teach people about the ins-and-outs of modern hemp cultivation, production and sales.