The debate around the Texas THC prohibition is reaching a critical juncture. A bill aiming to ban all products containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has landed on Governor Greg Abbott’s desk. The measure, which recently gained approval from both the Texas House and Senate, has sparked intense reactions from hemp industry leaders and advocates, who are urging the governor to veto what would be a sweeping legislative change. If enacted, the ban could dismantle Texas’ flourishing hemp industry, bringing far-reaching consequences for the state.

What Senate Bill 3 Proposes

Senate Bill 3 proposes a comprehensive ban on all THC products, allowing only non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD and CBG to remain available for sale and consumption. This legislation comes after the Texas Legislature inadvertently opened a door in 2019, legalising consumable hemp products. While the law placed strict limits on delta-9 THC content, it overlooked other hemp derivatives, leading to a booming market of THC-laced products such as edibles, vapes, and flower buds.

Proponents of the current THC ban argue that the industry exploited this legal loophole, resulting in over 8,000 retailers and an estimated $8 billion industry thriving on products that were never intended to be legal under the original 2019 law.

Implications for Texas’ Hemp Industry

Should Senate Bill 3 become law, the consequences for Texas’ hemp industry are monumental. Approximately 50,000 jobs connected to this sector would be at risk. Retailers, farmers, and workers who have built their livelihoods around hemp-based products could face a devastating economic blow.

The ban would also alter consumer behaviours. Recreational users and patients who rely on these products for therapeutic purposes would have no legal options other than the limited offerings of the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP), which restricts access to medical marijuana for specific conditions.

The Role of Lawmakers and the Governor

While Governor Abbott has yet to take a definitive stance on the issue, his silence is closely watched. An official spokesperson recently confirmed that he would “thoughtfully review” the bill upon its arrival at his desk, leaving advocates and opponents alike in suspense.

Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has been one of the most vocal supporters of the Texas THC prohibition, making this legislative push one of his top priorities. His efforts have received backing from lawmakers like Rep. Tom Oliverson, who has been instrumental in advancing the measure within the House. However, differences between the Senate and House over the scope of the bill, particularly regarding medical marijuana provisions, have added layers of complexity to the debate.

Medical Marijuana Expansion as a Selling Point

One of the most significant sticking points in the THC ban debate has been the proposed expansion of the Texas Compassionate Use Program. House lawmakers initially pitched this alongside the THC prohibition, suggesting the inclusion of chronic pain and other conditions in the program’s list of qualifying criteria.

This additional provision sought to address concerns about limited access to medical marijuana. However, the Senate removed the chronic pain clause, causing dissatisfaction among some House members. Compromise conversations eventually led to an agreement to expand licensed dispensaries and allow satellite storage facilities, but for many, this falls short of addressing the needs of Texans who could benefit from medical cannabis.

The Arguments for and Against the Ban

Advocates in Favour of the Ban

Supporters of Senate Bill 3 argue that legal THC-laced hemp products have led to unintended consequences, including increased access among minors and a lack of regulation. They claim that banning THC products outright will help close these loopholes and better align with the state’s conservative stance on recreational drug use.

Another key argument is the perceived need for clarity in existing legislation, as the 2019 hemp law was meant to promote agriculture and not encourage a booming THC market.

Critics Call for a Veto

On the other side, hemp industry leaders, small business owners, and advocates are strongly opposed to the ban. They argue that the thriving market has created legal, economic, and cultural benefits, emphasising the significant number of jobs tied to the industry.

Critics also highlight the ban’s potential to drive THC products into an unregulated black market, which could exacerbate public safety risks rather than mitigate them.

Governor Abbott’s decision will determine whether Senate Bill 3 becomes law or meets its end with a veto. Until then, all eyes remain on his administration as debates about the role of THC products, hemp, and medical marijuana continue to weigh heavily on Texas’ future.

This decision could have far-reaching implications not only for Texas’ economy, but also for broader discussions about cannabis legislation in the United States.

Source: Texas Tribune