Texas Senate Bill 3 Is A Step Backward for State’s Vibrant Hemp Industry | MedCAN24

Texas Senate Proposes Controversial Ban on THC and Most Cannabinoids

Senator Charles Perry has introduced Senate Bill 3 (SB 3), aiming to criminalize THC and most cannabinoids in Texas’ thriving hemp market, while offering some consumer protection measures. If passed, this legislation could cripple a multi-billion-dollar industry, risking thousands of jobs and pushing the hemp market underground.

Key Provisions of Senate Bill 3 (SB 3)

1. Consumer Protection Measures

• Mandatory testing for microbial contamination in all consumable hemp products.
• Retailers must report cannabinoid content to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
• Strict labeling standards, certifying that CBD or CBG levels do not exceed 0.015% on a dry weight basis.
• Prohibition of medical claims on packaging or advertisements.

2. Restrictions on Youth Access

• Age limit: Only adults aged 21+ can purchase hemp products.
• Product placement: Hemp products must be displayed separately from items for children and not sold within 1,000 feet of a school.
• Childproof packaging: Multi-serving products must meet tamper-evident and child-resistant criteria.

3. Severe Criminal and Financial Penalties

• Manufacturing or selling hemp products containing banned cannabinoids would be a third-degree felony.
• Possession of such products would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor.
• Shipping violations could lead to fines up to $10,000 and additional legal repercussions.

Heather Fazio, Texas Cannabis Policy Center:
“While we share Senator Perry’s concerns about regulation and youth access, an outright ban will push the industry underground, making enforcement impossible and jeopardizing consumer safety.”

Economic Impact: A Looming Crisis for Texas Hemp Industry

The Texas hemp industry, valued at $8 billion in 2022, supports around 50,000 jobs and is projected to grow to $10-15 billion by 2025. However, SB 3 could reverse this progress, threatening livelihoods and restricting access to regulated, safe products.

Senator Perry, once a key figure in legalizing hemp in Texas, now proposes a bill that could dismantle years of economic growth by banning cannabinoids that had become legally available and taxed since 2019.

Community and Industry Reactions

The hemp industry’s backlash highlights concerns about:

• Economic setbacks from banning popular cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC.
• Consumer safety risks from driving the market underground.
• Job losses in a growing industry crucial to Texas’ economy.

“Criminalizing products that have been safely sold for years will not protect consumers—it will only create a black market,” argued industry leaders.

What Comes Next?

Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has expressed support for fast-tracking SB 3 through the Texas Senate. However, House members remain hesitant, signaling a potential legislative battle over hemp regulation.

Key Questions Moving Forward:

• Will the Texas House oppose the criminalization of THC?
• Can consumer protections be achieved without crippling the hemp industry?
• How will this legislation impact Texas’ economic growth and consumer access?

Conclusion: The Future of Texas Hemp Industry at Stake

If SB 3 passes:

• Thousands of jobs could be lost, and an $8 billion industry might collapse.
• Consumers will face restricted access to safe, tested products.
• The Texas hemp market risks being driven underground, complicating regulatory enforcement and consumer safety.

MEDCAN24 continues to provide comprehensive coverage on cannabis and hemp legislation, keeping you informed on developments shaping the future of cannabis policy in Texas and nationwide. Stay connected for more updates on this critical issue.