Texas THC Ban Faces Pushback from Agriculture Commissioner and Local Business Owners

Sid Miller, the Agriculture Commissioner, and local business owners are opposed to a proposed universal ban on THC in Texas, contending that regulation is more favorable than prohibition. The purpose of Senate Bill 3, which Lubbock State Senator Charles Perry introduced, is to prohibit all consumable items that contain THC due to concerns regarding their efficacy and accessibility to children.

Miller expressed his opposition to the broad prohibition, stating that certain products are medicinal and have redeeming qualities that actually benefit people.

House Bill 1325, which was enacted in 2019, permitted hemp products with THC concentrations of less than 0.3%. However, it did not incorporate the age restrictions that are applicable to alcohol, cigarettes, and vapes. Miller recognized the necessity of more stringent regulations, mainly to prevent the sale of products like THC-infused gummies to children.

Miller also stated that the restriction would not affect Texas hemp producers as the sector transitions to the cultivation of commercial fiber hemp rather than oil-producing THC crops. Nevertheless, the restriction could have a catastrophic effect on businesses like the BD American Shaman of Lubbock.

Jennifer Garza, the proprietor of the establishment, expressed her apprehension regarding her livelihood, asserting, "This would render me entirely insolvent." Garza advocated for Miller's proposal of regulation as opposed to an explicit prohibition.

As long as hemp products, including CBD, are devoid of THC, they would be permissible under the proposed legislation. The legislation would also safeguard the state's Compassionate Use Program for medical marijuana.

On January 14, the Legislature is anticipated to convene to deliberate on potential agreements. Miller has indicated a willingness to work with Perry to achieve a compromise.

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