Overview

• The Texas House and Senate have approved Senate Bill 3, enacting a total ban on consumable hemp products containing any amount of THC.
• The bill introduces strict penalties, including up to a year in jail for possession and 2–10 years in prison for manufacturing or selling THC products.
• The Texas Hemp Business Council has announced plans to sue, arguing the ban will devastate the state’s $8 billion hemp industry and its 50,000 jobs.
• Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick championed the ban, citing public health concerns, while opponents warn it will drive THC sales into an unregulated black market.
• Separate legislation to expand Texas’ medical marijuana program is advancing, potentially increasing qualifying conditions and adding dispensaries.