Texas, the largest hemp THC market in the U.S., is forging ahead with state-level regulations despite looming federal restrictions.
The $8 billion industry, which flourished under the 2018 Farm Bill, now faces uncertainty as a new federal provision bans hemp-derived products containing more than 0.4 milligrams of THC, according to The Texas Tribune.
The measure, part of the recent federal funding bill, is set to take effect next November, putting Texas law at odds with federal mandates.
The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is moving forward with permanent regulations to replace emergency rules enacted in September.
The commissioners are adhering to Gov. Greg Abbott’s September executive order, which instructed the TABC and the Department of State Health Services to enforce stricter regulations on licensed hemp businesses, including age restrictions and mandatory ID checks for THC products.
Public input on the proposed rules will continue through January, with a final vote expected soon after.
Hemp advocate Shaun Salvaje, a veteran who uses the products, says the state-level measure is critical to preserving an industry “that is built by Texans for Texans.”
The Texas Hemp Business Council has vowed to fight the federal ban, emphasizing the economic and scientific importance of hemp.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has called on Congress to repeal the provision, warning of its potential impact on Texas businesses.
