September 11, 2025

Big Changes Coming to Hemp Sales in Texas

News Summary

Governor Greg Abbott has announced new regulations for hemp sales in Texas aimed at protecting children from THC products while allowing adults to purchase them responsibly. Retailers will be required to verify customer ages, and updated testing standards will gauge total delta-9 THC content. The order empowers local jurisdictions to impose sales bans, stirring concerns about potential shifts to the illicit market. While many in the industry welcome the changes, critics argue that more comprehensive legislation is necessary for long-term solutions.

Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has enacted an executive order aimed at regulating the sale of hemp products containing THC in Texas. Signed on September 10, this order intends to enhance safety measures by protecting children from accessing certain hemp products, while still allowing adult consumers the opportunity to purchase them under new, stricter regulations.

The executive order instructs three state agencies—the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), and the Department of Public Safety (DPS)—to implement these new regulations. Among the key requirements, retailers must now verifiably check government-issued identification to ensure that customers are at least 21 years old before selling them THC products.

Furthermore, the DSHS is responsible for revising testing requirements to confirm that the total delta-9 THC content in products is accurately measured. This involves including cannabinoid concentration, recommended serving sizes, and necessary health warnings on labels. In a significant deviation from the 2018 Farm Bill, the new regulations will require the inclusion of THCA in total THC measurements, which had previously been excluded by federal legislation.

In addition to these measures, DSHS will strengthen recordkeeping for all sales and revise application and renewal fees to adequately cover the costs associated with regulatory oversight. Abbott’s executive order responds to previous inaction by state legislative leaders, including Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who dismissed calls for regulation during prior sessions, despite suggestions for stricter measures, including a potential ban.

This order represents a marked shift from previous attempts to address the regulation of THC. Abbott has conveyed a sense of urgency, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding children and ensuring consumer transparency throughout the hemp industry. Local jurisdictions will also have the authority to vote on whether to ban the sale of hemp products containing THC in their areas.

While the order addresses many of these concerns, it has prohibited the retail sale of hemp flower. Critics argue that this prohibition could lead to increased demand for products from the illicit market, which raises further concerns about consumer safety and oversight.

An ongoing study has been directed to the DSHS, TABC, and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service to establish a more comprehensive regulatory model, which mirrors provisions outlined in House Bill 309. Industry figures, such as the CEO of Texas-based Hometown Hero, have welcomed the approval of this executive order, indicating it may help to build credibility in the hemp industry while enhancing safety protocols.

Advocates within the industry expressed relief upon learning that a stricter ban on THC products did not come to fruition. Many support the newly implemented age restrictions, viewing them as a positive step toward protecting public health and safety. Nonetheless, there remain apprehensions regarding specific implementation details and the possibility of further limitations on where and how hemp products can be sold.

Abbott’s administration aims to quickly initiate the rule-making process as dictated by the executive order, with plans to commence work within a targeted ten-day timeline. However, some critics have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the measures, with certain individuals labeling the order an “empty gesture.” These critics assert that what is ultimately needed is comprehensive legislation rather than unilateral actions.

As Texas embarks on this new regulatory path regarding hemp products, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact consumers, retailers, and the overall landscape of the hemp industry within the state.

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Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN

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