The hemp industry in Texas scored a significant victory this year when Governor Greg Abbott vetoed SB3, one of the most talked-about and debated bills of the legislative session.
This bill would have banned all products containing THC, which would have severely impacted the hemp industry and made life very difficult for hemp farmers across the Lone Star State.
Governor Abbott waited until nearly the last possible moment, just before the bill’s signing deadline on Sunday, to make his decision. In the end, he vetoed SB3, forcing lawmakers to rethink their approach to regulating hemp and THC products in Texas.
Why Governor Abbott Vetoed SB3
Governor Abbott’s Veto Proclamation cited a few key reasons for his decision. First, he pointed out that the bill was already facing lawsuits, and there was a strong possibility that it could be overturned in court.
Additionally, Abbott expressed concern that the bill could be left in legal limbo while its fate was debated in court, causing uncertainty for the hemp industry.
Another significant point in Abbott’s veto was his consideration for the hemp industry itself. He noted that businesses, from hemp farmers to retailers, have invested in the industry, and changing the rules “in the middle of the game” would be unfair to responsible business owners. Abbott clearly showed his support for the hemp industry in Texas, acknowledging its growing importance.
What’s Next for Hemp and THC Products in Texas?
Although SB3 has been vetoed, the debate around THC products and hemp in Texas is far from over. In his veto statement, Governor Abbott called on state legislators to return to Austin in July for a special session where new regulations will be discussed and put in place. Abbott specifically mentioned that the new regulations should be similar to how alcohol is regulated in Texas.
The goal is for the new law to be implemented immediately after the special session, allowing for clear rules and guidelines around the hemp industry in the state.
This shift in direction is notable, especially considering that during the debates over SB3, some amendments were suggested that would have moved the bill toward regulation rather than a complete ban.
However, legislators chose not to pursue these changes at the time. Now, with Abbott’s veto, lawmakers will have the chance to craft a new approach to managing the hemp and THC markets in Texas.
A New Chapter for Hemp in Texas
While this is a huge win for the hemp industry, the future is still uncertain. The special session in July will determine how hemp products are regulated in the state moving forward.
For now, opponents of SB3 have a lot to celebrate, knowing that their efforts to protect the industry and its stakeholders have paid off—at least for now.