Texans have been experiencing a THC oasis as they tap into the magic of hemp. In the last few years, a thriving industry has grown around this form of Cannabis sativa. Producers convert or quantify 2018 Farm Bill-compliant hemp to a THC level that can make people feel high. An industry has grown around these products, especially in states with no form of legal cannabis.
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Texas has a legal low-THC medical cannabis program. However, people are seeking more based on the proliferation of hemp lounges, stores, and consumers. Unfortunately for pro-hemp advocates, today marks the likely end for intoxicating hemp in the Lone Star State despite swaths of people speaking out against banning the products.
After a day of deferring the conversation, the Texas House of Representatives voted for on Senate Bill 3, a hemp-banning bill, with a final tally of 86 for and 53 against. This goes against many who have spoken out in favor of the growing hemp space.
A voter survey showed that 68 percent of Texans support a responsibly regulated hemp space. Only 20 percent of the 600 people polled favored a total ban. One Texas cannabis store and lounge banked on this resounding support and started offering free weed for those who voiced SB3 opposition to their local representatives. It has not stopped proponents from pushing to pass legislation that seeks to halt hemp in its tracks.
The bill, introduced by Republican Senator Dan Patrick, seeks to stop all intoxicating hemp sales and production once it becomes law. Under SB3, those possessing hemp THC products with more than 0.3 percent THC could be subject to a Class A misdemeanor. This charge could incur a year in jail and a fine of up to $4000. Those manufacturing intoxicating hemp would be subject to a third-degree felony, charges translating to two to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
SB3 advocates argue that intoxicating hemp products put children at risk, with operators popping up around schools and playgrounds. This concern for Texas kids has made banning hemp a priority of Sen. Patrick, as he championed SB3 through the legislative process. The Senate amended and passed it back in March. Today, SB3 reached its final vote.
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Next steps see the House holding a largely ceremonial vote before the SB3 heads back to the Senate. If it passes there, it will travel to Governor Greg Abbott’s desk. He is the same official who signed House Bill 1325 into law in 2019, kicking off the now banned space.
Last month, Gov. Abbott implied that he is deferring to the legislative bodies to inform his decision in an interview with FOX 26 political reporter Greg Groogan. This could mean a quick signature and implementation.
The issue of how to regulate intoxicating hemp products is prevalent throughout the U.S., but the argument in Texas has received national attention due to the proliferation of the industry there. What comes next is up to the Senate and, ultimately, the governor.
