Texas Governor Orders Crackdown on Illegal Hemp & Vape Shops

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to intensify enforcement actions against vape and smoke shops that are not complying with state laws and regulations regarding hemp products. “Texas will protect children from dangerous hemp products,” Governor Abbott stated, emphasizing that the crackdown is a priority.

Under the Governor’s directive, the DPS Criminal Investigations Division (CID) will conduct targeted operations to identify problematic shops. Special Agents will then work with state, local, and federal partners to perform inspections and conduct undercover operations to identify unlawful activity. The DPS Crime Lab will test any seized products, and investigations will be pursued to bring charges against both employees and shop owners found in violation of Texas law.

This move follows a previous executive order from last month where Governor Abbott instructed multiple state agencies, including the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, to take immediate action to protect children from hemp-derived products while respecting federal law and the liberties of responsible adults.

Read more: Texas THC Vape Ban (SB 2024) Now in Effect: What to Know
Read more: Texas Vape Ban Takes Effect, Wipes Out Most Disposable Vapes
News source: Governor Abbott Directs DPS To Increase Hemp Enforcement

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Sophia Bennett

Author at Ecigator

Sophia Bennett has dedicated her career to monitoring and analyzing the regulatory landscape and news within the vape industry. With a keen eye for the evolving policies that shape this dynamic market, Sophia brings a critical perspective to her commentary and reports.

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