News Summary
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has vetoed Senate Bill 3, which aimed to ban most consumable hemp products, especially those with THC. The decision has been celebrated by local businesses like J Heart CBD that feared job losses. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick criticized the veto, claiming it reflects Abbott’s support for legalizing recreational marijuana. Abbott stated the need for a proper regulatory framework instead of an outright ban, prioritizing public safety and business viability as Texas prepares for a special legislative session.
Austin, Texas – Texas Governor Greg Abbott has vetoed Senate Bill 3 (SB 3), which sought to impose a ban on most consumable hemp products, particularly those containing THC. The veto, announced late Sunday night, sent a wave of reactions across the state, particularly among local businesses that would have faced severe repercussions if the legislation had gone into effect.
Local retailers such as J Heart CBD in Cedar Park welcomed the news with relief, expressing joy over the state’s decision to preserve their operations. Store Manager Lizzie Taylor noted that the atmosphere following the veto was one of triumph within the community, alleviating concerns about job security that had arisen in light of SB 3’s potential impacts.
In contrast, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, a staunch advocate for SB 3, criticized Abbott’s decision, alleging that the governor’s stance indicated support for legalizing recreational marijuana in Texas. Patrick expressed disbelief and frustration, claiming that he believed the bill was well-supported before its veto.
Abbott described SB 3 as “well-intentioned” but cautioned that it could provoke constitutional challenges. He emphasized that instead of an outright ban, Texas should establish a regulatory framework that aligns with federal laws regarding hemp products. Abbott’s veto announcement came as part of a larger decision-making process, where he vetoed 26 bills during this legislative session.
With plans for a special legislative session set to begin on July 21, Abbott signaled intentions to discuss regulations pertaining to the hemp industry, prioritizing public safety and an adequately funded enforcement structure. He indicated that a law should be crafted to mirror how alcohol is regulated, aiming to keep local businesses thriving while ensuring consumer safety.
SB 3’s primary goal was to prohibit Delta 8, Delta 9, and other intoxicating forms of THC, but it would not impact the state’s Compassionate Use Program, which allows for medical marijuana in Texas. Over the past decade, the state has seen a significant increase in CBD shops, fueled by both federal and state regulations that legalized hemp markets.
Cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-9 have gained traction, largely due to regulatory loopholes concerning THC. The bill garnered support mainly from Republican legislators in the Texas House but faced significant opposition from retailers and advocacy groups concerned about the economic impact of such a ban.
The announcement of Abbott’s veto followed a strong public campaign against SB 3, with numerous petitions and letters delivered to the governor’s office advocating for the local hemp industry’s rights. In light of the veto, the Texas Hemp Business Council praised Abbott’s decision, citing a commitment to encouraging business innovation and protecting jobs within the hemp sector.
Even though there is a degree of support among Texans for stricter regulations on THC, surveys indicate that a majority oppose a complete ban. Abbott emphasized the debate surrounding SB 3 highlighted the conflict between state and federal regulations, particularly as enforcing the proposed ban would criminalize activities that federal laws permit.
As Texas continues to grapple with some of the strictest marijuana laws in the United States, the veto of SB 3 exemplifies the ongoing complexities around cannabis legislation. The discourse surrounding this issue underscores the state’s precarious position in balancing consumer interests, public safety, and the evolving landscape of hemp regulation.
With anticipation building for the upcoming special session, stakeholders in the hemp industry remain hopeful that collaborative efforts will lead to legislation that supports innovation and aligns with federal guidelines, ultimately shaping the future of cannabis regulation in Texas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Governor Greg Abbott Vetoes THC Ban Amid Controversy
Austin’s Hemp Industry Faces Legislative Threat
Governor’s Tough Call on THC: Texans Weigh In
Texas House Takes Bold Step to Ban All THC Products
The Great THC Debate Heats Up in Texas
Texas Legislature Finalizes Senate Bill 37 for Universities
Texas Legislature Passes Major THC Ban: What It Means for Residents
Texans Rally Against Senate Bill 3 Amidst Economic Concerns
Texas Senate Advances Controversial Hemp Bill
Texas Legislature Passes Controversial Bill to Ban THC Products
Additional Resources
- CBS News Texas
- Wikipedia: Texas gubernatorial election
- Cannabis Business Times
- Google Search: Texas THC ban veto
- NBC DFW
- Google Scholar: Texas THC regulation
- Statesman
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas hemp regulation
- Lubbock Online
- Google News: Texas hemp industry
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
