Texas Hemp Industry Avoids Legislative Ban, But Calls for More Equitable Regulations Continue
AUSTIN, TX – September 5, 2025 – The Texas hemp industry narrowly avoided a potential ban this legislative session as lawmakers ultimately refrained from enacting restrictions on hemp-derived THC, a move that brought a collective sigh of relief to businesses and advocates. Though, stakeholders say the current landscape remains uneven, with the state’s medical marijuana program operating under significant limitations.
The debate centered around the legality of intoxicating compounds derived from hemp, prompting concern that a crackdown could jeopardize a rapidly growing industry. Ultimately, legislators did not pass a ban, but the outcome left some feeling the playing field remains tilted.
“We want to ensure that what people are taking is safe and effective for the reasons that they’re taking it,” said Jervonne Singletary, a spokesperson for Austin-based medical marijuana company goodblend. “Ultimately, these are both intoxicating products with very, very few genetic differences, and so they should be treated in some form or fashion in a like manner.”
Currently, Texas’ medical marijuana program is restrictive, limiting access to patients with a specific, narrow range of conditions and requiring purchases through a small number of state-permitted distributors. Singletary noted that her company received numerous calls from patients worried the legislative debate would negatively impact their access to medical marijuana.
While the recent expansion of the medical marijuana program – including the removal of a requirement that dispensaries not hold product overnight – is seen as a positive step,Singletary cautioned that the rollout will take time. “The uncertainty has been a bit hard to plan in, but I think now we are past that uncertainty that hinders business development, and we can move forward as a company, and the industry can move forward with the legislature that actually supports the program,” she said.
Heather Fazio, director of advocacy for Texas Cannabis Policy Center, believes the debates signal progress toward broader cannabis reform. “We’re headed in the right direction, and we’re having meaningful conversations about these policies,” Fazio said. Her institution has spent the last decade advocating for the medical marijuana program, decriminalization of possession, hemp industry protections, and full legalization of marijuana in Texas.
“When we are able to have a seat at the table and have lawmakers at the table, we start to really break down the issue and help to find shared values,” Fazio added.
This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2025/09/05/texas-thc-shops-retailers-ban-relief-age-limit/.
The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org.
Topics: Texas, Cannabis