Inside the Lawsuit: Julie Gunnigle Kicks Off HITA-AZ’s Fight for the Hemp Industry

As Arizona’s hemp industry faces an unprecedented legal challenge, the Hemp Industry Trade Association of Arizona (HITA-AZ) is proud to launch a new legal interview series with the attorneys leading our fight in court.

We begin with Julie Gunnigle, a respected civil rights attorney and former Maricopa County Attorney candidate, who brings deep insight into the constitutional stakes of the case. Her message is clear: this lawsuit isn’t just about hemp—it’s about your rights.

Julie Gunnigle: Protecting Constitutional Rights

Civil rights attorney Julie Gunnigle brings a constitutional lens to this case, emphasizing the dangerous precedent Arizona’s enforcement may set.

“This is not just about hemp. This is about due process, equal protection, and whether state governments can override federally legal industries.”

Julie discusses how the crackdown affects not only business owners but everyday consumers who rely on hemp products for wellness and quality of life. She warns that undermining the 2018 Farm Bill risks eroding civil liberties and calls on the public to stand behind HITA-AZ’s efforts.

What to Expect from This Interview

  • Constitutional implications of the hemp crackdown

  • How Arizona’s actions may threaten due process and equal protection

  • Why this case has national consequences for the hemp industry

  • A passionate call to defend federally legal hemp and civil rights

Julie doesn’t just explain the case—she makes it personal. She reminds us that when state officials act without clarity or authority, it’s not just bad policy—it’s a threat to liberty.

Why It Matters

Arizona’s aggressive enforcement actions against legal hemp-derived THC products have already caused business closures, supply chain disruption, and widespread fear across the industry. If left unchallenged, this could set a dangerous precedent for other states to follow.

That’s why HITA-AZ filed a lawsuit—and why your support matters now more than ever.

Support the Legal Defense Fund

This is the first in a three-part interview series with the HITA-AZ legal team. Up next, we’ll hear from Tom Dean, a leading cannabis attorney with decades of courtroom experience, and Jon Udell, a policy expert focused on business impacts and enforcement reform.

Please consider donating to the HITA-AZ Legal Defense Fund to help us continue this critical work:

We can’t win this fight without you.
Donate now to help protect the future of hemp in Arizona and across the country.

Coming up next:
Interview with Tom Dean, breaking down Arizona’s legal landscape and why this case matters far beyond state lines.

Stay tuned to HITA-AZ.org and follow us on social media for real-time updates, interviews, and calls to action. Together, we can protect hemp—and protect your rights.

Laura Franklin