Latest news with #TexasHemp
Yahoo
23-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott vetoes SB 3, cites proposed state THC ban conflicting with federal law
In the 11th hour until the deadline, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has struck down the proposed THC ban from state lawmakers, giving Texans his reason why. Senate Bill 3, authored by Lubbock Republican Sen. Charles Perry, was set to severely restrict the $8 billion hemp industry in Texas. Others are reading: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signs historic $20 billion water investment bill, talks state impact Perry, along with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, on their media press tour around Texas earlier in the month, defended the proposed law, saying it would have closed a loophole in state law that allowed "bad actors" to make synthetic cannabis that is "more powerful and more potent than anything we've ever seen before." In a statement on social media, Patrick criticised Abbott's decision to veto SB 3. "Throughout the legislative session, (Gov. Abbott) remained totally silent on Senate Bill 3, the bill that would have banned dangerous THC products in Texas," Patrick stated. "His late-night veto, on an issue supported by 105 of 108 Republicans in the legislature, strongly backed by law enforcement, many in the medical and education communities, and the families who have seen their loved ones' lives destroyed by these very dangerous drugs, leaves them feeling abandoned." Patrick further stated he would hold a press conference to discuss the bill's failure, but it must be noted that this statement was issued before Abbott announced a special session for lawmakers to address SB 3. Document: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's Veto Proclamation on SB 3 Abbott also released a four-page proclamation as to why he vetoed the bill, stating that the bill was "well-intentioned" but "would never go into effect because of valid constitutional challenges." Abbott further cited a similar bill in 2023 in Arkansas, which was challenged in the courts and has been left in limbo on whether it can be enforced or not. "If I were to allow Senate Bill 3 to become law, its enforcement would be enjoined for years, leaving existing abuses unaddressed. Texas cannot afford to wait," read Abbott's proclamation. Abbott, a former Texas Supreme Court justice and attorney general, said it would create a showdown between federal and state law with legal ramifications for farmers and pharmacists. The governor also said SB 3 could also take private property unconstitutionally — even if the bill is aimed at so-called "bad actors" exploiting a loophole. "But there are also many Texans conducting business responsibly, who invested millions of dollars planting fields or opening up retail stores in reliance on laws making hemp a lawful product," read Abbott's justification. "While States may restrict the use of dangerous contraband, it is a different thing entirely to change the rules in the middle of the game." Others are reading: What's the difference between marijuana, cannabis? 4/20 terms to know. But the reality of the issue does not go unnoticed by the governor, who gave lawmakers the task of creating a law that protects public safety, aligns with federal law, has a "fully funded enforcement structure," and can go into effect without delay. "Passing a law is not the same thing as actually solving a problem," read Abbott's message. "Texas needs a bill that is enforceable and will make our communities safer today, rather than years from now." After the governor's veto, hemp industry leaders released statements praising the governor for his decision but also warning that the issues at hand still need to be addressed more meaningfully. "We respect Governor Abbott's decision and understand his concerns about unintended consequences. That said, the rapid proliferation of high‑potency hemp products in Texas has highlighted a regulatory gap that simply can't be ignored. I hope this signals a renewed commitment to crafting thoughtful legislation that effectively addresses public health and youth protection, without undermining safety," said Jason Vedadi, CEO of Story Cannabis. Others are reading: Delta what? Here's how to understand the difference between Delta 8, 9 and 10 "While the bill's failure to move forward keeps the status quo in place, it should not be mistaken for a long-term solution. There is growing concern around unregulated psychoactive hemp products being marketed without proper safeguards or age restrictions. Lawmakers will need to revisit this issue soon to ensure Texas has a cannabis framework that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and public health. Consumers deserve better than loophole-driven policies," said Sara Gullickson, CEO of Cannabis Business Advisors. "We applaud Governor Abbott's decision regarding Senate Bill 3, which recognizes that sensible regulation is superior to outright prohibition. This outcome preserves thousands of Texas jobs and billions in economic activity while maintaining the state's ability to implement appropriate safeguards. The hemp industry has consistently supported responsible regulation, including strict age verification, product testing, and transparent labeling," said Reid Stewart, CEO of Frozen Fields. As stated above by the governor, lawmakers will be able to address the shortcomings — rather the overreach of SB 3 in a special session in July. The special session is set to convene in Austin on July 21, 2025 and will last 30 days. Mateo Rosiles is the Government & Public Policy reporter for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Got a news tip for him? Email him: mrosiles@ This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Texas Gov. Abbott calls special session to address proposed THC ban
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Hemp industry advocates respond to Texas THC ban, plea with Gov. Abbott to veto SB 3
The clock is ticking louder as the deadline is fast approaching for Texas' proposed hemp-derived THC ban bill. The bill - Senate Bill 3 — was authored by Lubbock Republican State Sen. Charles Perry to help close a loophole Lt. Governor Dan Patrick said was "exploited" to grow the THC market in Texas. However, the sweeping ban is set to impact the $8 billion hemp industry. Others are reading: Patrick, Perry defend proposed Texas THC ban after smoke shop exploit hemp loophole The bill has garnered backlash from both sides of the aisle, with hemp advocates calling on Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to veto the bill, including the Texas Hemp Coalition. "The Texas Hemp Coalition is calling on Governor Greg Abbott to veto Senate Bill 3 before his midnight deadline on June 22nd. This is a deeply flawed measure that would devastate Texas' legal hemp industry and harm farmers, entrepreneurs, and consumers across the state," reads a statement from the coalition. According to the organization, SB 3 would have the following impact on Texas: Eliminates Jobs — Over 50,000 jobs are at risk across farming, processing, retail, and manufacturing. Hurts Small Business — Hundreds of independently owned stores and operations could be forced to shut down. Contradicts Federal Law — SB 3 restricts hemp products legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. Endangers Public Safety — Driving the industry underground removes consumer protections like testing, labeling, and age restrictions. Undermines Texas Agriculture — Many Texas farmers have invested heavily in hemp as a rotational crop and income stabilizer. Benefits Other States — Neighboring states with legal hemp markets will absorb displaced Texas customers and businesses. Pushes business to the illicit market with no checks and balances which doesn't protect our consumers and citizens. The coalition's executive director, Illissa Nolan, said in a statement that the hemp industry doesn't want a free pass but rather fair rules, and "supports strong, science-based regulation including age limits, robust testing, and clear labeling." "This bill overreaches, penalizes responsible businesses, and guts a legal industry that has grown under aclear federal and state regulatory framework," said Nolan. "Governor Abbott has a history of supporting small business and rural economies. We respectfully ask him to stand with us again and protect one of the most promising sectors of Texas agriculture and entrepreneurship.' Others are reading: Lt. Gov. Patrick, Sen. Perry tout legislative victories in Lubbock stop During the 89th Texas Legislature's regular session, the bill cleared the Senate 26-5, with it being amended in the House and passing 87-54. With the Senate agreeing to the House's amendment, the bill was sent to Abbott's desk on May 27, starting the clock. The governor has until June 22 to do one of the following: Sign it — it becomes law and is effective starting Sept. 1. Veto it — with the House having the chance to overturn the veto. Not sign it — still becomes law effective starting Sept. 1. Abbott has not tipped his hand as to which of the three options he is leaning towards as the deadline approaches. Mateo Rosiles is the Government & Public Policy reporter for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Got a news tip for him? Email him: mrosiles@ This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Hemp industry advocates urge Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to veto THC ban
Yahoo
19-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Texas Hemp Advocates Nearing 150,000 Signatures Urging Governor Abbott to Veto SB 3
AUSTIN, Texas, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grassroots momentum is accelerating in Texas as a growing coalition of veterans, small business owners, farmers and everyday Texans call on Governor Greg Abbott to veto Senate Bill 3. The Texas Hemp Business Council (THBC) today announced that its petition to stop the controversial hemp ban has reached 147,979 signatures. On June 2, the THBC and advocates delivered 5,000 handwritten letters and more than 118,000 petition signatures to Governor Abbott's office. The increase since then reflects persistent public alarm as the June 22 deadline for gubernatorial action approaches. 'There have been well over 200,000 Texans who have voiced their opposition to SB 3 via email, letter, petition, social media and text,' said Mark Bordas, executive director of the THBC. 'It didn't work for alcohol in the 1920s and it won't work for hemp in 2025. Texans do not want SB 3. Even among Republican primary voters, the very voters who shape the future of Texas politics, this bill is deeply unpopular. We respectfully urge Governor Abbott to listen to the people and veto this dangerous legislation.' The surge in support comes just one week after a new poll revealed that Texas Republican voters reject banning hemp-derived products, a central aim of SB 3. Conducted by GOP pollster Chris Perkins of Ragnar Research Partners, the poll found: 47% of Texas Republican primary voters oppose banning hemp products; just 37% support a ban. 53% believe a ban will empower drug cartels, and 55% say it will increase black market sales. 72% believe veterans should be able to access THC products as an alternative to opioids. These results reinforce an earlier statewide poll conducted by Baselice & Associates in March, which showed 68% of Texas likely voters support legal, regulated THC hemp products, including majorities across party lines and age groups. Texas implemented strong hemp regulations in 2019 under HB 1325, such as strict rules on THC limits, full panel testing, licensing, labeling and accessible certificates of analysis. However, if signed into law, SB 3 would ban hemp-derived products currently legal under both federal and Texas law. The legislation will eliminate $4.3 billion in annual revenue and 53,000 jobs, and also flood the state with unregulated, unsafe products. 'If we're going to ban something harmful, let's start with alcohol, the third leading preventable cause of death in the United States, or tobacco, which kills more than 480,000 Americans each year. But we're not banning those products. Instead, powerful lobbyists tied to marijuana monopolies and Big Alcohol are pushing to criminalize a hemp industry that has created 53,000 jobs and helped countless Texans, especially veterans. The public sees what's happening. Texans don't want prohibition. They want fairness, freedom, and safe regulated choices, not backroom deals that put political influence over people's lives.' About the Texas Hemp Business Council The Texas Hemp Business Council is an industry organization dedicated to promoting the hemp-based cannabinoid industry in Texas, while advocating for consumer safety, education and stakeholder engagement. More information is available at Media Contact: George Medici/Natalie Mu PondelWilkinson Inc. gmedici@ or nmu@ 310-279-5980Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
07-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Don't give Dan Patrick his THC ban. Here's a better way for Texas on cannabis
Sometimes, the Texas Legislature creates a mess that only it can fix. And unfortunately, the clean-up is often a mess of its own. So it is with a bill that would ban products that contain THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. It's an attempt to right a loophole in the 2019 state law that allowed a Texas hemp industry to develop. But the medicine is simply too strong. Gov. Greg Abbott should veto the bill and give the Legislature the chance to try again with precise, thoughtful regulation. How did we get here, with lawmakers wanting to dismantle something they essentially created a few years ago? In 2019, Texas needed a law to comply with new federal statutes on hemp, the non-intoxicating version of the cannabis plant. Legislators charged ahead, missing the distinctions among the chemicals that can provide a high. They also failed to ask enough questions about testing, including whether police labs had the capacity to determine the level of THC in a product and thus the difference between hemp (legal) and marijuana (still illegal). Still, a business opportunity was born, and Texas, as our leaders like to say, is open for business. Responsible retail shops boomed, but so did unscrupulous producers who offered wares that enticed children and didn't distinguish between a professional who would demand ID or a convenience store where somnolent clerks wouldn't even notice who was buying gummies and the like. Enter Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. Before some lawmakers could even settle in their offices, he declared that a complete ban on products containing THC was the only option. He suggested that he would not negotiate and that if he didn't get his way, he would melt down the whole legislative session. He never said exactly how, but Patrick, who controls all the levers in the Texas Senate, could have held back one of Abbott's priorities, such as school vouchers, or even prevent passage of the state budget, which would leave no option but a special session. Patrick was never willing to entertain the obvious solution: more precise regulation with more robust enforcement. Texas could allow for the sale of low-level THC products without embracing a full-blown marijuana culture. The experience of legalization in other states has been fraught with problems. There's increasing concern that today's much stronger, much more available marijuana is incapacitating too many people — as well as creating alarm about possible unknown long-term health consequences. Licensed dealers can sell well-tested products in packaging that's unappealing to children. The state could bar corner gas stations or other generalized stores and businesses within walking distance of schools from dealing in THC products. It could create an agency to regulate them, funded through a tax on the products, or create such a function within an existing state entity. In other words, it could treat the substance similar to the way it treats alcohol. We all know that even with a regime of rules and enforcement, teenagers sometimes drink. A few, tragically, even die as a result. Few people would say that's sufficient reason to ban beer and wine. Heck, they are venerated Texas industries. Patrick gave away the game when, late in the session, he declared that cannabis producers and retailers 'want to kill your kids, and they don't give a damn.' It's the kind of pompous, self-righteous rhetoric that Patrick frequently uses to substitute for actual debate. And if someone else made similar remarks about, say, the gun industry, Patrick would be the first to get in front of a Fox News camera and decry it. The lieutenant governor declared it 'stupid' to even raise the comparison to alcohol — though, to be fair, few are more familiar with stupid rhetoric than Patrick. Patrick did eventually agree to expanding the availability of medical marijuana under the state's Compassionate Use Program. If Abbott signs that bill — and he should — conditions such as traumatic brain injuries and chronic pain would be among those added to the list that qualifies a Texan to purchase THC products. The state would add more dispensaries, too. In other words, through specific, careful regulation, Texas is steadily finding ways to get needed relief to those who can find it nowhere else. Someone alert Patrick: It can be done! We love to hear from Texans with opinions on the news — and to publish those views in the Opinion section. • Letters should be no more than 150 words. • Writers should submit letters only once every 30 days. • Include your name, address (including city of residence), phone number and email address, so we can contact you if we have questions. You can submit a letter to the editor two ways: • Email letters@ (preferred). • Fill out this online form. Please note: Letters will be edited for style and clarity. Publication is not guaranteed. The best letters are focused on one topic.
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Texas THC ban: Advocates seeking SB 3 veto to hold Monday press conference in Austin
The Brief A coalition is urging Governor Greg Abbott to veto SB 3, a bill that would ban legal THC products in Texas. Supporters of the hemp industry plan to deliver over 100,000 petition signatures and thousands of letters to the Governor's office on Monday. Opponents of the ban argue it would dismantle a $4.3 billion industry, risk 53,000 jobs, and potentially lead to an influx of unregulated products. AUSTIN - A coalition of Texans concerned about the looming ban on THC products is set for a press conference in Austin on Monday. They say over 100,000 petition signatures and thousands of letters are expected to be delivered to Gov. Greg Abbott's office in relation to their plea. According to the Friday press release from Texas Hemp Business Council, those expected to appear at the conference include farmers, veterans, small business owners and hemp advocates. They plan to speak out against SB 3, which would put an end to legal THC consumables within the state. The coalition plans to meet at the Texas Capitol at 2 p.m. Monday in hopes of convincing Abbott to veto the bill, which has been passed by both the House and Senate. According to their press release, they are concerned about the dismantling of a $4.3 billion industry which they say supports 53,000 jobs, as well as the potential to "open the floodgates" to unregulated, unsafe products in the vacuum created by the legislation. What they're saying The council's press release reads in part: "The Texas Hemp Business Council and its supporters are calling on Governor Abbott to veto SB 3 and stand with the hundreds of thousands of Texans, including small business owners, workers, consumers and veterans, who depend on this industry for jobs, economic opportunity and the freedom to choose hemp-derived products." SB 3 has been championed through the legislative session by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who has called the consumable products "poison." Patrick has come under fire by small business owners, who claim he "blatantly lied" about the contents of consumable THC products. The other side Small business owners have been among the front runners of those in opposition of the bill. They say the industry is made up of over 8,000 businesses in the state, all of which would potentially be dismantled if the bill were signed into law. Alongside small businesses are Texas veterans. They say THC has been a positive alternative to more addictive and potentially harmful substances like alcohol, opiates and prescription pills, and worry about those suffering from PTSD and other mental and physical maladies who might fall back into destructive habits if the substance is banned. The backstory The THC products being sold by businesses in Texas were legalized via an accidental loophole created in 2019, when Texas passed legislation expanding the hemp industry. Farmers worry that closing off that loophole will be disastrous for their profits and employees, which have come to rely heavily on the booming industry over the past six years. While SB 3 would all but ban THC, there is still one possible, albeit narrow, legal option for those who rely on the substance. The Texas Compassionate Use Program, or TCUP, has been in place since 2015, allowing for medical marijuana use by a very select few who meet the requirements. This session, HB 46 had intended to expand on the parameters in TCUP. Included in the House's proposed expansion were honorably discharged veterans who would benefit from use, those experiencing chronic pain, glaucoma, traumatic brain injury, spinal neuropathy, Crohn's disease or other inflammatory bowel diseases, degenerative disc disease and patients with a terminal illness or condition for which a patient is receiving hospice of palliative care. On Saturday, Texas Representatives took to social media, rallying against a Senate amendment to the bill, which would have cut chronic pain, TBI and other conditions from those included in the new parameters. It also dramatically cut the number of new licenses to be issued. The House members on X were upset about the changes, saying many had approved of SB 3 under the condition that TCUP would be expanded. Sunday, Patrick posted on X that he and Rep. Tim Oliverson (R-Cypress) came to an agreement on the legislation. What's next Abbott has declined to comment on whether he will sign SB 3 into law. The legislation has been sent to his desk, and while the governor has been vocal about bills he intends to sign, the THC ban has not been mentioned in the wake of pressure from opposing sides. The governor has three choices before him. He can either sign the bill into law, veto the legislation, or allow it to sit on his desk for 10 days, at which point it will pass without his direct approval and take effect on Sept. 1. The Source Information in this article comes from the Texas Hemp Business Council and previous FOX 7 reporting.
