Texas Senate Again Passes Bill to Ban THC Hemp Products

The Texas Senate has once again approved a bill that would ban most hemp-derived THC products in the state, setting up a potential clash with Governor Greg Abbott and the House of Representatives. In a 22-8 vote, the Senate passed legislation from Senator Charles Perry (R) that would recriminalize the market for intoxicating cannabinoids.

This move comes during a second special legislative session and directly contrasts with Governor Abbott’s directive. Abbott had previously vetoed a similar bill and called on lawmakers to create a comprehensive regulatory model that would limit potency and restrict synthetically modified compounds, while establishing an age limit of 21 for purchasing these products, rather than imposing an outright ban.

Senator Perry defended the ban, stating, “This stuff is not good and it’s harmful for those that use it, specifically on a long-term basis.” His bill would ban cannabis products containing “any amount” of cannabinoids other than CBD and CBG, making even mere possession a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.

Hemp advocates and industry stakeholders argue this would effectively eradicate the state’s massive hemp market, as it’s nearly impossible to manufacture CBD or CBG products with zero traces of THC. While the Senate bill now heads to the House of Representatives, other bills have been filed that align more closely with the governor’s call for regulation, such as one from Rep. Charlie Geren (R) focusing on an age 21 purchase limit. The differing approaches between the Senate, the House, and the Governor’s office create an uncertain future for Texas’s hemp industry.

News source: Texas Senate quickly passes several bills on second special session’s first day

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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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