Texas is at it again. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has made it clear that banning hemp-derived THC is a top priority for 2025—because, apparently, Texas lawmakers haven’t learned from the disastrous consequences of prohibition. This move isn’t just a slap in the face to small businesses—it’s a full-on assault on an industry that has created thousands of jobs and generated millions in tax revenue.
The Absurdity of an All-Out Ban
Hemp-derived THC products have been legally available since the 2018 Farm Bill, giving consumers access to alternative wellness options and creating more than 50,000 jobs in Texas alone. Now, instead of focusing on meaningful regulation, the state wants to wipe out an entire industry to satisfy political posturing. The irony? Marijuana legalization continues to gain traction across the country, and even Texas voters are largely in favor of cannabis reform. But instead of embracing this economic opportunity, Texas is doubling down on prohibitionist nonsense.
The Real Problem: No Limits and Unregulated Cannabinoids
Let’s be real—Texas hemp businesses need to make a concession if they want to keep their industry alive. The reality is, unlimited milligrams of THC per product aren’t sustainable. When hemp companies flood the market with 50mg, 100mg, or even 500mg THC products, it opens the door for regulators to shut everything down.
Instead of fighting for an unrealistic free-for-all, Texas hemp businesses should push for a reasonable compromise:
✅ 10mg THC per serving – This closely aligns with Minnesota’s approach and keeps hemp businesses competitive without overstepping boundaries.
❌ Ban Frankenstein cannabinoids like HHC, THCP, and synthetic derivatives – These compounds muddy the water and make it harder to argue that hemp products are safe and natural.
A clear, common-sense framework would protect both consumers and businesses, ensuring the hemp industry remains viable instead of being completely wiped out.
The Economic Fallout of a Ban
If Texas follows through with a full ban, the economic impact will be devastating:
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50,000+ jobs lost
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Millions in tax revenue gone
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Consumers forced to the black market
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Texas hemp businesses forced to relocate to more sensible states
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A domino effect impacting other states without established programs
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More lobbying power to anti-cannabis groups, leading to further restrictions nationwide
Rather than pushing for an outright ban, lawmakers should work with the industry to develop smart regulations that allow hemp-derived THC to exist responsibly. Killing an industry that employs tens of thousands and provides safe alternatives to alcohol and pharmaceuticals is just bad policy.
Retailers Are Already Participating
Even large retailers like Spec’s, a major Texas liquor chain, are participating in the hemp-derived beverage marketplace. This proves that there is a legitimate demand for these products, and businesses see the potential in regulated hemp-derived THC. However, beverages should not be the only legal way to consume hemp. Consumers deserve options that include hemp flower, edibles, tinctures, mixers, THC spirits, and creams. Restricting hemp to beverages only is arbitrary and unfair—there is no logic in allowing one form while banning others.
Final Thoughts
Texas needs to wake up and realize that prohibition doesn’t work. A full ban on hemp-derived THC would be a disaster for small businesses, a boon for the black market, and a huge loss for consumers who rely on these products. Instead of throwing the baby out with the bathwater, let’s focus on reasonable regulations—a 10mg per serving cap, no synthetic cannabinoids, and a structured marketplace that ensures consumer safety.
If Texas really cares about public health and the economy, they should stop the knee-jerk bans and start making smart policy decisions. But hey, when has that ever been their strong suit?
