News Summary
As Senate Bill 3 awaits the Governor’s decision, Texans express strong opposition against the potential ban on hemp-based products. Recent polls show that nearly half of Republican voters are against the ban, echoing a broader trend favoring regulated solutions over prohibitions. The Texas Hemp Business Council warns of significant economic consequences, with the $10.2 billion industry and thousands of jobs at risk. As the deadline approaches, the debate intensifies, highlighting the importance of consumer rights and economic stability in Texas.
AUSTIN, TEXAS – The future of hemp-based products hangs in the balance as Senate Bill 3, proposing a ban on their sale, awaits Governor Greg Abbott’s decision. A recent poll reveals that 47% of Texas Republican primary voters oppose the ban, with only 37% in support, and 16% undecided regarding the legislation’s implications for hemp products.
The poll also highlights that 45% oppose banning THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, while 35% support the prohibition, and 21% are uncertain. Notably, opposition is particularly strong among households with active-duty or former military members.
Across political lines, Texans are showing a strong preference for the regulation of hemp-derived THC rather than a total ban. Many residents advocate for restrictions that are age-specific, allowing adults access while limiting exposure to minors.
Support for these views is bolstered by the voice of the Texas Hemp Business Council (THBC), which has mobilized against the bill by submitting 5,000 handwritten letters and a petition with over 118,000 signatures to Governor Abbott, urging him to veto S.B. 3. The Executive Director of THBC expressed that the bill poses an attack on the rights and livelihoods of Texans, warning that its enactment could destroy tens of thousands of jobs across the state.
If S.B. 3 is passed, it threatens to force Texans who use hemp-based products into illegal and potentially unsafe black markets. The poll, conducted by Republican pollster Chris Perkins of Ragnar Research Partners, surveyed 800 likely GOP primary voters and has a margin of error of ±4%. It reflects widespread dissent against bans such as S.B. 3, especially among the Republican electorate, whose preferences heavily influence legislative decisions.
A statewide poll from March supports these findings, showing that 68% of Texas likely voters favor the legal sale of THC products with strict regulations, while only 20% advocate for a comprehensive ban. Among Republican voters, 57% support regulated legality, contrasted with 29% favoring prohibition. The desire for regulated access is even more pronounced among independents (72%) and younger voters (76%), while senior voters have also shown significant opposition to prohibition.
The THBC Executive Director criticized claims linking hemp products to increased alcohol consumption as misleading. In Texas, alcohol is responsible for nearly 90 fatalities from crashes every month. This misrepresentation detracts from broader discussions about regulated alternatives and public health.
The hemp industry has proposed regulatory measures, including restricting sales to individuals under 21 and increasing distances from schools where products could be sold, showcasing a willingness to compromise in the interest of public safety.
Under S.B. 3, all forms of intoxicating THC, including Delta 8 and Delta 9, would be banned, allowing only the sale of non-psychoactive substances like CBD and CBG. Governor Abbott must reach his decision by June 22, facing pressure from both lawmakers and business owners regarding the future of the hemp industry.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick supports the bill, arguing for its necessity in protecting youth from the risks associated with THC products. However, critics highlight the potential disruption the bill could bring to a thriving $10.2 billion hemp industry in Texas, endangering the livelihoods of thousands and potentially diminishing job security.
If enacted, S.B. 3 will take effect on September 1, though it will not abolish Texas’ Compassionate Use Program, which enables patients with specific qualifications to access medicinal marijuana. The ongoing discussion around S.B. 3 has sparked considerable public interest, with many stakeholders feeling that the outcome of the proposed ban could directly impact their businesses, health, and personal freedoms.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CBS News
- Cannabis Business Times
- Fox 4 News
- Houston Chronicle
- ABC 13
- Wikipedia: Texas
- Google Search: Texas hemp industry
- Google Scholar: Texas THC ban
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas
- Google News: Texas Senate Bill 3
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
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