News Summary
Chattanooga small business owner Benjamin A. Whitelaw raises alarms over HB1376, a bill that threatens the local hemp industry by banning THCa products. This legislation poses serious consequences for the community, especially for Whitelaw’s family-run business which relies heavily on THCa sales. Critics argue that the bill could favor large corporations at the expense of local enterprises and jeopardize the livelihoods of many in economically challenged neighborhoods.
Chattanooga Business Owner Sounds the Alarm Over New Bill Threatening THCa Products
In the heart of Chattanooga, Benjamin A. Whitelaw, a devoted small business owner, has been making waves with his concerns about a newly passed bill, HB1376, that could significantly impact the local hemp industry and the community he serves. As a cherished member of the Glass Farms neighborhood, which faces economic challenges, Whitelaw’s business has become a lifeline for many residents.
What Is HB1376?
HB1376 is a controversial piece of legislation that aims to ban THCa products. For those unfamiliar, THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) products are prevalent within the hemp market and have been a source of income for many small business owners like Whitelaw. This bill poses an existential threat to their livelihoods, especially in neighborhoods where median household incomes hover around $42,993—significantly lower than the city’s average of $61,028.
The Struggles of a Small Business in a Tough Neighborhood
The poverty rate in Whitelaw’s community surpasses 28%, making local businesses vital for economic stability. Whitelaw operates his hemp store with a community-first approach. His consistent efforts in hiring locals and organizing community initiatives like clean-ups and food drives showcase his commitment to uplift his neighborhood. He has built a space that serves more than just retail; it fosters community spirit and resilience.
Family at Stake
Whitelaw runs his business with the support of his wife, Jana, and their 5-year-old son, Arlo. The thought of financial instability looms large over this family as the bill threatens to take away 90% of their sales, which rely heavily on THCa products. Whitelaw has invested significant resources into his store after the passage of SB0378, a previous law that sanctioned hemp businesses and enabled him to contribute more to local revenue through taxes. By December alone, he has paid upwards of $4,300 in taxes, reinforcing his commitment to the community.
The Bigger Picture
Whitelaw expresses concern that if HB1376 passes, it would put the Alcoholic Beverage Commission in charge of regulating hemp-derived products. Such a move could favor larger corporations while sidelining small businesses, something that already struggle against the odds. The bill also limits products with total THC content over 0.3%, largely targeting those THCa products that have become essential to small business survival.
Industry Pushback
Critics of HB1376, including groups like the Tennessee Growers Coalition, argue that the amendment undermines industry collaboration and threatens to dismantle the progress made since SB0378 was enacted. For many, the focus should be on preventing youth access to these products without imposing restrictions that harm small businesses, which are already working diligently to navigate regulatory waters.
A Call for Fairness
From the perspective of community service and personal ethics, Whitelaw passionately believes that the bill runs counter to the values of fairness and responsibility instilled in him by his mother, a retired Methodist preacher. He challenges state leaders, urging them to consider the consequences of their legislative decisions on families and local economies.
What’s Next?
The bill has already made its way through the Tennessee House and is now awaiting a crucial vote in the state Senate before heading to Governor Bill Lee’s desk for approval. As it stands, this legislation threatens the livelihood of countless small business owners and could endanger $250 million in annual tax revenue from the hemp industry.
Chattanooga is on the cusp of a critical moment that could shape its local economy for years to come. The community is watching closely to see how this legislative situation unfolds and what it could mean for the businesses that serve as the backbone of their neighborhoods.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga Businesses Brace for New Hemp Regulations
Minnesota’s New Laws Set to Transform Life in 2025
Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: TN House Passes Bill Banning THCa Products
- Chattanoogan: You’re Voting To Destroy My Family’s Business
- Wikipedia: Hemp
- Google Search: THCa Products
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cannabis
