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Texas Health Officials Weigh Hemp Rules That Could End Most Smokable Sales by Jan. 25

Ordered by Gov. Greg Abbott after a legislative impasse, the draft rewrites THC calculations, with five‑figure license fees.

Overview

  • DSHS proposes counting THCA toward Delta‑9 THC limits, a change that would effectively outlaw most smokable hemp products.
  • Annual licenses would jump to $25,000 per manufacturing facility and $20,000 per retail location, up from $250 and $150.
  • The rules could take effect as soon as Jan. 25 following public comments due Jan. 19, though officials may revise or phase enforcement.
  • Edible hemp products could remain available under stricter requirements including child‑resistant packaging, stronger warnings, expanded testing, mandatory recalls, age verification, and posted lab results.
  • Testimony highlighted sharp divisions as small businesses warned of closures and public‑health advocates supported tougher oversight, with DSHS coordinating with TABC under the governor’s order.