Texas’s hemp industry is facing a threat as state lawmakers consider two bills that could dramatically restrict or outright ban hemp-derived THC products. The legislative showdown has mobilized thousands of Texans to defend a market they say provides crucial wellness benefits while contributing billions to the state economy.
The Battle Lines
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has made eliminating THC products in Texas a key priority for the 2024 legislative session. Two bills are currently under consideration: Senate Bill 3, backed by Patrick, which would completely ban hemp-derived THC products, and House Bill 28, which would impose strict regulations including age restrictions and licensing requirements while banning most edible and smokable products.
A multibillion-dollar industry hangs in the balance with less than two months to go in the legislative session. Hemp opponents say the unregulated industry is harming children.
The Products at Stake
The fight centers on consumable hemp-derived delta-8 THC, a chemical variant of delta-9 THC found in traditional cannabis. Delta-8 provides milder psychoactive effects and is often combined with CBD for pain relief and mental wellness. These products became legal in Texas following the 2019 farm bill and are widely available in smoke shops, convenience stores, and even Veterans of Foreign Wars outposts throughout the state.
Patrick vowed in 2024 to undo the legislation and claimed that stores were selling products containing “unlimited THC” and marketing them to children with “life-threatening” consequences.
Public Response
The House State Affairs Committee recently heard testimony on both bills, with overwhelming opposition to a complete ban. Over 1,000 Texans appeared at the Capitol to voice their concerns, with 536 opposing HB28 and 518 opposing SB3.
“In the veteran community, we’ve chosen this as an option in the toolbox that works for us,” testified Mitch Fuller, a veterans advocate who supported regulation rather than prohibition, according to Axios Houston. Fuller urged lawmakers to “regulate the hell out of this industry” rather than eliminate it entirely.
The CEO of Hometown Hero, Lukas Gilkey, testified against both bills, refuting claims about Texas hemp being synthetic and challenging assertions about deaths attributed to hemp products.
Economic Impact
The Minority Cannabis Business Association (MCBA) submitted statements opposing both bills, highlighting the industry’s substantial economic contribution. “In support of small hemp business owners in the state of Texas who employ more than 50,000 workers and who represent more than a $5 billion economic impact, the Minority Cannabis Business Association speaks in opposition to SB3/HB28,” the organization stated.
The association warned that the proposed legislation would “push consumers and entrepreneurs back into the illicit market where we truly have no control over testing and safety.”
Political Uncertainty
The fate of these bills remains uncertain. Senate Bill 3 has already passed the Senate with a vote of 27-4, with Houston Democratic Senators Molly Cook and Carol Alvarado among the few opponents. Both bills currently remain pending in the House committee.
House Speaker Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) has not yet declared which bill he supports. “I’m all for small business, but I really don’t know what’s being sold,” Burrows told Community Impact, as reported by Axios Houston. “I really don’t know how safe this is. I have significant concerns. That’s why we’re going to have these hearings.”
A Third Option
Hemp advocates are promoting an alternative solution in the form of House Bill 4242, which they claim would address safety concerns while preserving the industry. “HB4242 is the bill that cleans this whole mess up. It’s not too late to do right by Texans, lawmakers! Be on the right side of history for our great state!” stated Grow House Media in a social media post.
What’s Next
All eyes are now on the House State Affairs Committee, which must decide whether to advance either bill to the full House floor. With less than 60 days remaining in the legislative session, every moment is crucial for the industry’s future.
Industry advocates are urging Texans to continue contacting committee members to oppose SB3 and HB28 while supporting HB4242 as a compromise solution. The outcome will determine whether Texas maintains its position in the growing hemp industry or reverses course on a market that has flourished since 2019.
Veronica Castillo is a Communications Strategist and published writer who brings over a decade of experience from insurance and HR to her current role as Communications Manager at the Minority Cannabis Business Association. Following her early career in insurance law and human resources, she established herself as the Traveling Cannabis Writer, publishing over 200 articles and managing multiple magazine columns while documenting stories across the United States. As a communications specialist and Board Member for MCBA, she develops comprehensive marketing strategies, secures national media coverage, and champions equity in the cannabis industry through policy and empowerment initiatives. Her expertise spans crisis communications, strategic media relations, and integrated marketing campaigns that drive organizational growth and meaningful engagement.
Vee has relocated to Puerto Rico to help build the bridge between the mainland and its colony. You can follow her journey on her website, Instagram, and/or LinkedIn.