Texas Hemp Businesses Sue State to Block Smokeable Hemp Ban
Texas hemp industry leaders and advocacy groups have filed a lawsuit against the state to block new regulations that effectively ban smokeable hemp products. The Texas Hemp Business Council, along with other organizations, sought a temporary restraining order in Travis County, arguing that the Department of State Health Services overstepped its constitutional authority by redefining hemp. The new rules require laboratories to measure total THC content rather than just Delta-9, which bans popular THCA products like flower and pre-rolled joints. Additionally, the regulations drastically increase licensing fees from hundreds to thousands of dollars per facility. While the industry supports consumer safety measures like age verification, they contend the agencies cannot substitute their policy judgments for legislative intent. This legal action follows Governor Greg Abbott's veto of a full legislative ban last year, leading to these administrative restrictions instead.
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Texas Hemp Businesses Sue State to Block Smokeable Hemp Ban
Texas hemp industry leaders and advocacy groups have filed a lawsuit against the state to block new regulations that effectively ban smokeable hemp products. The Texas Hemp Business Council, along with other organizations, sought a temporary restraining order in Travis County, arguing that the Department of State Health Services overstepped its constitutional authority by redefining hemp. The new rules require laboratories to measure total THC content rather than just Delta-9, which bans popular THCA products like flower and pre-rolled joints. Additionally, the regulations drastically increase licensing fees from hundreds to thousands of dollars per facility. While the industry supports consumer safety measures like age verification, they contend the agencies cannot substitute their policy judgments for legislative intent. This legal action follows Governor Greg Abbott's veto of a full legislative ban last year, leading to these administrative restrictions instead.
AP News