Texas Hemp Industry Faces New Rules
Texas's hemp industry braces for major changes as new state regulations banning THCa flower and raising fees take effect March 31.
The new regulations in Texas specifically prohibit the sale of hemp flower containing more than 0.3% total delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), including THCa, which is the precursor to THC. This change effectively bans smokable hemp products, as THCa converts to THC when heated. The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) is also increasing hemp license fees, which could create additional barriers for smaller businesses. These fees are set to increase from $100 to $600 annually. These changes follow legal challenges and debates over the legality of smokable hemp in Texas, with law enforcement often struggling to differentiate between hemp and marijuana. Some argue the regulations are necessary to clarify the legal landscape and prevent the sale of products intended to circumvent marijuana laws.
