SAN ANTONIO – Texas lawmakers have approved Senate Bill 3, a measure that would ban THC, sending shockwaves through the state’s hemp industry.
The bill passed with a vote of 95 yes’ to 44 no’s, according to House Speaker Dustin Burrows.
Related: ‘Modern-day prohibition’: Texas Legislators pass potential THC ban
The legislation, which targets THC in hemp products, has drawn strong reactions from both supporters and opponents. Tom Oliverson said, “What began in 2019 as a bipartisan effort to support Texas agriculture has since been hijacked by a cottage industry of unregulated THC sellers.”
Related: Retailers say Texas’ ‘devastating’ THC ban will force them to close shop
The new measure would impose a misdemeanor penalty, carrying up to a year in jail, for those knowingly possessing hemp products with any amount of THC. Manufacturers or sellers could face up to 10 years in prison.
Local attorneys report a surge in inquiries from retailers, manufacturers, and consumers about the bill’s implications. Mahler advised, “They need to hang on. Let’s see what happens in the next week and a half at the end of the legislative session, see if the governor does take action and veto this. But if he doesn’t, they need to prepare to close down.”
The potential impact on the $10-billion-a-year industry, which employs 53,000 Texans and generates $268 million in tax revenue, is significant. Concerns have also been raised about veterans who use these products for pain relief or PTSD.
As the legislative session continues, questions remain about the future of hemp sales, potential shop closures, and the impact on illicit markets. The situation is still developing, and further updates are expected.
SAN ANTONIO – Texas lawmakers have approved Senate Bill 3, a measure that would ban THC, sending shockwaves through the state’s hemp industry.The bill passed w Read More
