Governor Abbott vetoes Texas invoice banning THC hemp merchandise, citing authorized points, and requires a particular session to create a regulatory framework.
AUSTIN, Texas — Tensions are rising on the Texas Capitol after Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed Senate Invoice 3, a measure that may have banned consumable hemp merchandise containing THC. As a substitute of signing the invoice into legislation, Abbott is asking lawmakers again for a particular legislative session to create a regulatory framework for the favored substance.
Had the invoice been authorised, it may have severely impacted companies within the Texas hemp trade. For now, the veto permits these companies to proceed working, a minimum of quickly, whereas state leaders debate the way forward for THC regulation.
Abbott: Ban would set off authorized challenges
In a public assertion, Abbott defined his determination to veto SB 3, citing potential constitutional points. He stated the invoice’s outright ban on THC merchandise would doubtless not face up to “legitimate constitutional challenges” and will “put federal and state legislation on a collision course.” He pointed to the 2018 federal Farm Invoice, which legalized hemp merchandise on the nationwide degree, as a key authorized impediment.
Proposed regulation framework
Fairly than an outright ban, Abbott is pushing for a extra structured regulatory method. He needs lawmakers to undertake guidelines just like how alcohol is regulated in Texas. His proposal consists of:
- Banning the sale of THC merchandise to minors
- Requiring product testing all through the manufacturing course of
- Giving native governments the ability to ban shops that promote THC objects
- Offering legislation enforcement with extra assets to implement rules
Particular session begins July 21
Abbott has set July 21 as the beginning date for a particular legislative session to deal with this situation. Lawmakers are anticipated to take up the matter and try to discover a path ahead that balances trade considerations, authorized necessities, and public security.
In the meantime, stress continues to mount from each side of the political aisle.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, a vocal supporter of Senate Invoice 3, voiced his frustration with the veto on social media.
In a submit on X, Patrick wrote, “His late evening veto on a difficulty supported by 105 of 108 Republicans within the legislature, strongly backed by legislation enforcement, many within the medical and schooling communities, and the households who’ve seen their family members’ lives destroyed by these very harmful medication, leaves them feeling deserted. I really feel particularly unhealthy for individuals who testified and poured their hearts out on their tragic losses.”
He additionally introduced plans to carry a press convention at 12:30 p.m. in Austin to deal with the problem additional.
Texas hemp trade reacts
The Texas Hemp Enterprise Council launched the next assertion on Abbott’s veto:
“Governor Greg Abbott’s veto of SB 3 reinforces Texas’ status as a frontrunner in enterprise innovation and sensible policymaking. By selecting stability over overreach, Governor Abbott protected a vibrant, federally authorized hemp trade that employs 53,000 Texans and generates over $4.3 billion in annual gross sales.
“SB 3 would have banned broadly used, federally authorized hemp-derived merchandise, pushing shoppers towards unsafe alternate options and threatening public well being and selection. Governor Abbott’s veto protects the lots of of hundreds of farmers, veterans, small companies and grownup shoppers throughout Texas who depend on hemp for wellness and their livelihoods.
“Texas already has sturdy hemp rules below HB 1325, reminiscent of strict guidelines on THC limits, full panel testing, licensing, labeling and accessible certificates of research. We proceed to advocate for wise additions, reminiscent of limiting gross sales to these 21 and older, requiring child-resistant packaging, and establishing setbacks from colleges, all of which had been rejected by proponents of SB 3 in each the 88th and 89th Legislatures.
“Polling constantly exhibits that Texans don’t help a ban on hemp-derived merchandise. We commend Governor Abbott for his management and for listening to the greater than 150,000 petition signers and hundreds extra who shared their tales by way of handwritten letters. We stay dedicated to working with lawmakers and stakeholders to help a secure, well-regulated hemp trade, not only for Texas, however as a mannequin for the nation.”
