A proposal in Texas to ban hemp products containing THC is still in limbo, with the bill on the governor’s desk awaiting his signature — or otherwise.
Last month saw the bipartisan passage of Senate Bill 3, seeking (among other things) to ban all forms of the intoxicating cannabinoid THC derived from hemp. While hemp by legal definition contains very low levels of THC, it can be created by manipulating the non-intoxicating cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD); which can be present in hemp in high levels.
As at Wednesday this week, it still wasn’t clear what Governor Greg Abbott’s intentions are for SB3, after commenting to reporters that he hadn’t made a decision about the action he will take.
The issue has become a hot-button topic in Texas, and how much support there is for a ban can depend on who you ask.
According to new polling data reported by the Texas Hemp Business Council, only 35–37% of Republican primary voters support banning hemp or THC; with the majority wanting regulation over prohibition.
- 53% believe a ban will empower drug cartels
- 55% say it will increase black market sales
- 72% say veterans should be able to access Hemp/THC as an alternative to opioids
“Texans aren’t confused — they’re consistent: They want safe, legal access, not fear-based bans,” says the THBC. “Over 134,000 petition signatures and 5,000 handwritten letters have already reached Governor Abbott’s desk. This is not about politics. It’s about freedom, safety, and Texas jobs.”
According to THBC, 53,000 Texas jobs connected to hemp.
The poll was commissioned by THBC and conducted by Ragnar Research Partners among 800 likely Republican primary voters between June 2-4.
An earlier Baselice & Associates-run statewide poll indicated 68% of Texas likely voters support legal THC hemp products with strict regulations, while just 20% supported a ban.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has been a driving force behind a ban and is a strong supporter of SB3, previously stating the proliferation of hemp-derived THC products in stores across his state is a public safety issue.
“These stores which often target children with their marketing have popped up across the state, threatening the safety of our communities,” he said.
