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Governor Greg Abbott made headlines by vetoing Senate Bill 3, which sought to ban THC-infused hemp products, including delta-8 and delta-9 THC. This decision highlights a significant policy shift for Texas, with the governor calling for regulation rather than outright prohibition. Here’s a look at the key takeaways:
Abbott’s Decision: Governor Abbott vetoed Senate Bill 3 during a late-night session, rejecting the bill's full ban due to concerns over its constitutionality and alignment with federal law (the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp products).
Regulatory Approach Proposed: Abbott called for a special legislative session beginning July 21 to design a regulatory framework. The focus is on public safety, federal law compliance, enforcement funding, and swift implementation.
Patrick identified Senate Bill 3 and the THC ban as a key legislative priority, even calling the products “a poison in our public.”
He expressed disappointment at Abbott’s veto, stating that families and law enforcement feel “abandoned” as a result.
Patrick led efforts to advance the ban, making THC-infused items a visible political issue using investigative videos and public appearances.
Hemp Industry Advocacy: Veterans, farmers, and business leaders argued for regulation instead of an outright ban, citing the medicinal benefits and economic significance of the hemp industry.
Economic Impact: Texas hemp generates $8 billion annually in tax revenues, supports roughly 50,000 jobs, and remains a growing market due to the loopholes from the 2019 law allowing hemp-based products.
Political Pressure: Conservatives, liberals, and activists across the spectrum opposed the ban, with some arguing it infringes on parental and consumer rights.
Abbott acknowledged the need for stronger protections, likening the regulatory framework to alcohol laws. His recommendations include:
Blocking THC sales and marketing to minors.
Enforcing rigorous testing protocols for production.
Providing local governments authority to restrict THC product sales.
Increased law enforcement funding to monitor compliance.
While the bill to ban THC products fell through, lawmakers slightly expanded the state’s medical marijuana program. This includes:
Increasing access to medical dispensaries.
Reducing burdensome dispensary regulations.
Broadening qualifying conditions for medical marijuana use.
Criticism of Abbott and Patrick: The veto intensified debates between the governor and lieutenant governor, exposing rare divisions among prominent Texas Republicans.
Political Crossroads: Abbott’s veto came amid pressure from multiple fronts, including Texas Democrats who hoped the issue could fuel momentum for the 2026 statewide elections.
Abbott’s veto of Senate Bill 3 preserves the hemp industry for now but signals a shift toward stronger oversight and regulation. This approach could strike a balance between public safety, compliance with federal laws, and sustaining the economic benefits of Texas’s booming hemp sector. However, the tension between regulation advocates and prohibition supporters is far from over as lawmakers prepare for the upcoming special session.
What happens next will determine the future of THC-based products in Texas—and set the stage for broader discussions about cannabis and hemp policy nationwide.