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.

Big Changes Coming to Hemp Sales in Texas

In a significant move for the Lone Star State, Governor Greg Abbott just rolled out an executive order that aims to tighten the reins on hemp products containing THC. This fresh regulation, signed on September 10, comes with a clear goal: to ensure that children are protected from accessing certain hemp products while allowing adults to buy them within a structured framework.

A New Era of Regulation

The directive places the responsibility of implementing these new rules on three key state agencies: the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), and the Department of Public Safety (DPS). Under the new guidelines, retailers must do more than just give a friendly nod to the customer; they are now required to verify customers’ age by checking their government-issued IDs to make sure that anyone purchasing THC products is 21 years or older.

Revamping Testing Requirements

One of the most noteworthy changes stems from the DSHS, which is now tasked with revising testing requirements for hemp products. This means that products will be scrutinized to ensure that the total delta-9 THC content is measured accurately. Each product will also need to clearly state its cannabinoid concentration, recommended serving sizes, and health warnings, thus paving the way for more informed consumer choices.

It’s important to note that Texas is choosing to take a different route compared to the federal stance explained in the 2018 Farm Bill. Instead of just focusing on delta-9 THC, the state’s new regulations will include THCA in total THC measurements, which could raise the bar for product quality and safety.

Striking a Balance

Governor Abbott’s actions come after Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick seemed to dodge numerous calls for tighter regulations during previous legislative sessions, where there were proposals for strict measures like outright bans. The executive order signifies a pivotal shift in Texas’ approach to THC regulations, emphasizing the need to act swiftly for the protection of children and to enhance transparency for consumers.

Alongside the regulations, local jurisdictions are now empowered to hold votes on whether they want to impose bans on the sale of hemp products containing THC. However, this addition has stirred a bit of anxiety among industry insiders as the current retail sale of hemp flower is banned. Many fear that this might drive consumers towards the illicit market rather than legitimizing it.

Charting a Path Forward

The executive order doesn’t just stop at implementing rules; it also points toward a comprehensive study involving agencies like DSHS, TABC, and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. This study aims to create a thorough regulatory model, reminiscent of House Bill 309. Advocates from the hemp industry seem to welcome this planned study, believing it’s a step toward establishing much-needed credibility within the world of hemp.

With CEO Lukas Gilkey of Texas-based Hometown Hero backing the governor’s new regulations, many in the industry feel a weight has been lifted by the news that a stringent ban isn’t on the table. The age restrictions introduced are also seen as a logical step in the right direction to protect younger Texans.

Looking Ahead

However, some concerns do remain. Questions linger about the implementation details, particularly regarding potential additional restrictions on sales locations and specific product offerings. Abbott’s order plans to kickstart the rule-making process quickly with a target timeline that aims for work to commence within the next ten days.

Yet, not all are convinced that these measures will provide the full solution that’s needed. Critics, including some activists from organizations focused on marijuana policy, argue that an executive order alone is little more than an “empty gesture.” They assert that comprehensive legislation needs to be the priority rather than unilateral actions without a complete framework.

As Texas takes these first steps into a new regulatory world for hemp products, all eyes will be on how these changes affect the market, the customers, and, most importantly, the children of Texas.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

DALLAS STAFF WRITER The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas 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 State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.