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Texas Lawmakers Move to Ban THC-Infused Hemp Products

Texas Legislative Session on Hemp Products Ban

News Summary

Texas lawmakers have voted to ban the sale and possession of THC-infused hemp products, following prior approvals in both the House and Senate. The bill could impact over 8,000 businesses in the state’s $4 billion hemp industry, raising fears of job losses and business closures. Advocates argue it poses a serious wellness threat to many Texans, while opponents express concerns about government overreach and the potential rise of illegal markets. As the bill awaits the governor’s decision, both supporters and critics anxiously await its fate.

Texas lawmakers have passed a controversial bill that bans the sale and possession of THC-infused hemp products, a move that could severely disrupt the state’s burgeoning $4 billion hemp industry. The bill has garnered significant political support, passing the Texas House with a 95-44 vote after previously gaining approval from the Senate with a 24-7 vote.

The legislation’s impact could be felt across the state, affecting over 8,000 businesses and tens of thousands of employees who rely on hemp-derived products for their livelihoods. These products include items such as edibles, oils, and vapes that contain THC, a psychoactive compound. As Texas Governor Greg Abbott has yet to publicly address his stance on the proposed ban, the future of the bill is uncertain.

The Texas Hemp Business Council has voiced strong opposition to the ban and is advocating for Governor Abbott to veto the legislation. They argue that many Texans, including veterans, depend on hemp-derived products for wellness and that the ban could have detrimental effects on these individuals. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the economic implications of the ban, particularly for small businesses that would be impacted.

The bill, which is a main priority for Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, has been framed as a necessary measure to protect public health, especially for children. Patrick expressed urgency in passing the legislation, stating that unchecked availability of THC products poses significant health risks that could lead to further issues in the coming years.

Penalties under the proposed law would be stricter for the possession of these banned hemp products than for marijuana, with a potential jail term of up to one year for violators. In contrast, possessing less than two ounces of marijuana is currently a Class B misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of 180 days in jail.

Opposition to the bill has also emerged from various quarters, raising alarms about increased government overreach and potential criminalization of cannabis use. Critics, including some legislators, have expressed concerns that the ban may drive users toward more dangerous substances or illicit black-market options, countering the intent of the legislation.

The Texas Hemp Business Council is preparing to file legal challenges against the ban as part of its efforts to protect the interests of the hemp industry. The recent changes made by the House mean that the bill must go back to the Senate for further alignment before it can reach Governor Abbott’s desk for final approval or disapproval.

The passage of the bill comes on the heels of extensive public debate and lobbying efforts by multiple stakeholders, each arguing their respective points regarding public health and economic viability. If signed into law, the bill will enforce a ban on several forms of THC, including the popular variants Delta 8 and Delta 9, potentially leading to the closure of many businesses that rely on hemp sales in Texas.

This legislative move has sparked intense discussions about the future of cannabis regulations in Texas, especially in a state that has been progressively liberalizing its cannabis policies in recent years. As the deliberative process unfolds, the implications of this bill will likely resonate well beyond the legislative chamber, impacting the lives of countless Texans.