Texas Governor Vetoes Bill That Would Ban All THC Products
What it means for the future of hemp-derived THC in Texas—and beyond.
In a major decision for hemp-derived THC markets, Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a bill on June 23, 2025, that would have outlawed all consumable THC products in the state. The veto preserves a legal pathway for Texans to continue accessing hemp-derived THC-infused vapes, gummies, and other products, despite Texas maintaining some of the strictest marijuana laws in the country.
What the Bill Would Have Done
The proposed legislation sought to classify the manufacturing, sale, or possession of any consumable THC product as a misdemeanor offense. That would have included widely available goods such as Delta-8 or Delta-9 THC gummies derived from hemp products made legal at the federal level under the 2018 Farm Bill.
This bill was part of a growing trend among states attempting to rein in the booming hemp-derived cannabinoid market. Many of these products are sold in states where marijuana remains illegal, leveraging loopholes in federal and state laws. According to reporting from the Associated Press, the Texas proposal was among the most sweeping attempts to ban these products outright.
Why It Matters
With this veto, Governor Abbott allowed the billion-dollar hemp-derived THC market to continue operating across Texas. The industry has become a vital economic engine, supporting thousands of jobs and generating millions in revenue.
Critics of the bill—including retailers and advocates—argued that these products are essential for Texans who don’t qualify for the state’s limited medical cannabis program, but still seek relief from conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and PTSD.
By contrast, supporters of the ban—largely conservative lawmakers—raised concerns about the lack of oversight and the potential health risks of unregulated products. Other states have taken a middle-ground approach, such as California and Minnesota, which have implemented potency caps, age restrictions, and product labeling requirements to create safer marketplaces without full prohibition.
Abbott’s Next Move: A Special Session?
Interestingly, Governor Abbott has also called for a special legislative session to revisit the issue, signaling that while he vetoed the current version of the bill, he may still support a regulatory framework that balances consumer safety with economic viability. This leaves the door open for future compromise legislation—potentially focused on age limits, product testing, and marketing restrictions, rather than an outright ban.
A National Conversation
Texas isn’t alone in navigating the hemp-derived THC landscape. Other states—including North Carolina and Florida—have faced similar debates over regulation vs. prohibition. As more states wrestle with the fallout of the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived cannabinoids remain in a legal gray zone—technically legal under federal law, yet subject to wildly different state policies.
Final Thoughts
Governor Abbott’s veto marks a significant moment in the evolving conversation about cannabinoids, consumer access, and cannabis policy. For Texas, the decision reflects a growing recognition that a complete ban could do more harm than good—both to patients and to the state’s small businesses.
As always, consumers should stay informed, purchase from reputable retailers, and advocate for safe, science-backed regulation—not prohibition.