Texas Senate Approves Hemp-Derived THC Ban, Threatening 50,000 Jobs

The Texas Senate has passed Senate Bill 3, which aims to ban all forms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) derived from hemp, a significant step pushed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick amid concerns over public health and child safety. Supporters of the bill argue that current THC products pose risks to children, while critics, including industry advocates, warn that the ban could devastate the state's burgeoning hemp market, threatening approximately 50,000 jobs and pushing sales to the illicit market. The legislation, which now moves to the House, would outlaw all THC products, including popular edibles and beverages, while leaving the state's medical marijuana program intact. Advocates for the hemp industry have called for more regulated solutions instead of a total ban, emphasizing that prohibition is a failed approach. The House is currently considering a separate proposal that would implement stricter licensing and oversight instead of outright banning THC products. Despite public opposition to the ban, the bill reflects a growing trend in some states to regulate hemp-derived products more strictly.