Texas has found itself at the center of a national debate about hemp-derived THC—especially variants like Delta-8 and Delta-9—as well as the broader role of medical marijuana in the state. The state’s recent legislative attempt to ban these products through Senate Bill 3 (SB 3) has attracted legal scrutiny, public outcry, and a decisive veto by Governor Abbott.
Understanding the context of this debate requires examining the evolution of hemp policy in the United States, the passage of SB 3 in Texas, and the reasoning behind the governor’s veto.
A Brief History of Hemp in the U.S.
Hemp has a complicated history in American agriculture and law. The 2014 Farm Bill initiated a pilot program that allowed states to cultivate hemp for research purposes. The real turning point came with the 2018 Farm Bill hemp, which federally legalized hemp by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act, so long as it contained less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight.
This change opened the door to a wide array of products derived from hemp, including CBD, delta-8 THC, delta-10, and other minor cannabinoids. These products flooded retail shelves across the country, including in Texas, where a burgeoning industry quickly developed.
Texas Embraces the Farm Bill with HB 1325
In 2019, Texas passed House Bill 1325, aligning state law with the federal definition of hemp and allowing the production and sale of hemp-derived products. This created a legal market for low-THC consumables, including gummies, vapes, and tinctures.
Over the next few years, thousands of small businesses emerged to sell these products. However, critics claimed the industry was poorly regulated and accessible to minors. The lack of standard testing and labeling raised concerns about safety and enforcement.
Senate Bill 3: Attempting to Ban THC in Hemp
Introduced in Texas hemp legislation 2025 and championed by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, the hemp bill SB 3 sought to ban all consumable hemp products containing any form of THC, including delta-8, delta-9, and other intoxicating cannabinoids. The bill was passed by both the Texas Senate and House and was set to take effect on September 1, 2025, pending Governor Abbott’s hemp veto.
Supporters of the bill argued it was necessary to protect public health and close regulatory loopholes. Opponents, including veterans, medical users, and small business owners, argued that the bill would destroy a legal market that provides alternative health options and supports thousands of Texas jobs. Here’s a simplified version of everything you need to know about the SB3 and House Bill 46.
Public Response and Advocacy
The hemp industry and its supporters quickly mobilized. More than 150,000 Texans signed petitions urging the governor to veto the bill. Stories poured in from veterans, parents, and patients who credit THC-derived hemp products with improving their health and quality of life.
Veterans in particular were vocal, stating that these products offered relief from PTSD, chronic pain, and anxiety without relying on addictive pharmaceuticals.
Governor Abbott Vetoes SB 3
On June 22, 2025, Governor Abbott vetoed the hemp bill. In his veto letter, Abbott wrote that while the bill was well-intentioned, it was legally flawed. He cited a recent federal court ruling in Arkansas that struck down a similar ban on hemp products, noting that SB 3 would likely face constitutional challenges.
Abbott emphasized the need for a more balanced, legally sound approach to regulating the Texas hemp industry.
A Special Session Announced
Governor Abbott also announced that a special legislative session will be held starting July 21, 2025, to revisit the issue. This move allows lawmakers to draft new regulations that both protect public health and uphold constitutional rights.
Conclusion
Texas is at a crossroads. The veto of SB 3 presents an opportunity for the state to develop a regulatory framework that strikes a balance between consumer access, public safety, and legal compliance. As we approach the special session, stakeholders across the Texas cannabis legislation and CBD and hemp laws industries should remain engaged and advocate for a practical, evidence-based approach. The Texas hemp laws update expected during this session could significantly shape Texas hemp farming rules and the broader future of industrial hemp in Texas 2025.
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Aaron Bloom, an experienced healthcare attorney, serves as the CEO of DocMJ and Medwell Health and Wellness Centers, where he has overseen the organizations’ mission and growth since 2016. In addition to his leadership roles, Aaron serves on the Board of Directors for Waterfall Bank, bringing his expertise in healthcare, compliance, and strategic growth to the financial services sector.
Aaron’s passion for improving patients’ lives stems from more than 20 years of owning, operating, and representing traditional healthcare organizations. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to finding better ways to relieve suffering and expand access to innovative, patient-centered care. As CEO, Aaron works each day to help patients achieve better health and wellness through the therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis and other evidence-based alternative medicines.