Texas Legislature Passes THC Ban Amid Gov. Abbott Veto Pressure

Texas is at a critical crossroads over Senate Bill 3 (SB3), which would ban the sale of consumable products containing any amount of THC, affecting thousands of smoke shops and the broader hemp industry across the state. The legislation, supported by many Republicans including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and state legislators, aims to prohibit recreational THC while expanding limited medical THC programs for chronic pain patients. However, there is intense opposition from veterans, medical professionals, hemp farmers, and business owners who argue that THC products provide therapeutic benefits, serve as safer alternatives to pharmaceuticals and alcohol, and support a $4.3 billion industry with over 53,000 jobs. Petitions and protests urging Gov. Greg Abbott to veto SB3 have flooded his office, highlighting fears that the bill would dismantle the legal hemp market and leave consumers with unregulated, unsafe alternatives. The debate also involves liquor and beer interests, with some liquor groups opposing the ban to capitalize on THC beverages, while beer distributors campaign against THC products due to market share loss. As Abbott deliberates, the future of consumable THC in Texas hangs in the balance, with significant economic, health, and social implications at stake.