Texas Gov. Abbott Vetoes Bill Banning THC Consumables

Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed Senate Bill 3, which would have banned all hemp-derived THC consumables such as vapes and gummies, preserving a market valued at around $5 billion and protecting over 53,000 jobs. The bill aimed to criminalize ownership, manufacturing, and sale of these THC products, but Abbott's veto was driven by concerns that banning them would hurt small businesses and patients relying on them for pain relief. Abbott called for a special legislative session to begin in July to focus on regulating THC products, emphasizing that Texas faces enforcement issues rather than regulatory ones. The veto was met with strong opposition from Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, who had championed the bill and threatened a special session if it did not pass, criticizing Abbott for his late silence on the matter. Supporters of the veto, including the Texas Hemp Business Council, praised Abbott for standing with Texans and protecting jobs, while critics warned the ban could push the market underground. The debate highlights deep divisions within Texas GOP leadership over how to handle the growing THC consumables market amid strict marijuana laws and federal loopholes allowing these products to flourish.