Texas Governor Greg Abbott is expected to soon issue an executive order to regulate hemp-derived THC (Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol), and related products. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. This issue has been at the heart of heated debates in this year’s regular legislative session and two special sessions. The big question has been whether to ban t-h-c altogether or enact strict new regulations. As Texas Public Radio reports, the state legislature’s second special session ended without passing a bill to regulate or ban THC sales in Texas. The Texas Tribune is reporting Abbott will likely use his executive powers to take action on THC. At the camp safety bill signing on Friday, September 5, 2025, Abbott said quote “stay tuned on that.” A draft framework reportedly includes:
- A 21 age limit to buy or enter businesses
- ID checks
- Distance requirements from schools
- Labeling standards
- Mandatory testing of THC levels
- Higher fees for businesses.
Such rules to regulate THC sales could mirror those for liquor sales in Texas. In fact, on page 3 of Abbott’s June veto letter of the THC ban bill, Senate Bill 3, the governor mentioned that “Legislators could consider a structure similar to the way alcohol is regulated, with strict enforcement by an agency like the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.” An exact timeline for Abbott’s executive order is unknown at this point.
