Greg Abbott Vetoes Texas THC Ban, Calls for Clear Rules

Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a bill that would have outlawed all THC products in the state. Instead, he urged lawmakers to regulate them through new rules.

On June 22, just before the legal deadline, Abbott rejected Senate Bill 3. This bill would have banned items like gummies, vapes, and drinks containing hemp-derived THC. He argued that the measure would likely face legal trouble and fail in court.

Now, Abbott is shifting the conversation. He has called for a special session to begin on July 21. During this session, legislators must create a regulatory system. He wants rules similar to those that govern alcohol. These should cover safety labels, age limits, shop licenses, product testing, and child-resistant packaging.

• Abbott blocked a full ban on Delta‑8 and Delta‑9 THC products
• He said the proposed law would not survive legal challenge
• A special legislative session starts on July 21 to design clear regulations
• Expected rules will include labeling, safety tests, and retailer licensing
• Industry leaders say the move protects over 50,000 jobs and $4.3 billion in sales

“Senate Bill No. 3 attempts to address a real issue, but in a way that is legally risky and unlikely to stand,” Abbott stated in his veto explanation.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who backed the ban, criticized the veto. He said many families “feel abandoned” by the decision.

Texas continues to enforce some of the country’s toughest marijuana laws. However, since 2019, the state has allowed hemp products with trace THC levels. This market has since grown rapidly, generating billions in revenue and creating tens of thousands of jobs. Abbott’s veto halts the ban and opens the door to a new policy approach based on regulation.

More…

• https://apnews.com/article/thc-ban-hemp-texas-marijuana-abbott-9379bb3ab75b7278e9a3ec56fad791a9
• https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2025/06/23/delta-8-ban-thc-hemp-cannabis-texas-greg-abbott
• https://www.expressnews.com/politics/article/thc-ban-greg-abbott-veto-20359221.php
• https://www.overherehouston.com/abbott-faces-pressure-over-controversial-thc-product-ban/