Texas Governor Greg Abbott is expected to sign two contrasting marijuana-related bills into law—one that would dramatically expand the state’s medical cannabis program, and another that would effectively ban most hemp-derived THC products.
The first measure, House Bill 46, would broaden the state’s limited Compassionate Use Program by adding several new qualifying conditions, including chronic pain, terminal illness and traumatic brain injury. It would also increase the number of licensed dispensaries from three to fifteen and allow new methods of consumption such as patches and inhalers. The expansion would mark the most significant update to the program since it launched in 2015.
At the same time, the governor is also expected to sign Senate Bill 3, which would ban the retail sale of consumable hemp products containing any form of THC—including delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10—if the products are intended to be ingested, inhaled, or applied to the skin. Only trace amounts of THC would be allowed in CBD and other non-intoxicating products. The law would take effect September 1, 2025.
While medical marijuana advocates have applauded the move to expand access for patients with serious health conditions, hemp businesses across Texas are bracing for impact. The state’s hemp industry is estimated to be worth billions and supports tens of thousands of jobs. Critics say the ban could shut down small businesses and eliminate safer alternatives to opioids and alcohol.
Both bills passed the legislature with strong support. The governor has indicated support for banning hemp-based THC, making it almost a guarantee he will sign SB 3. Although he has not publicly supported HB 46, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick helped to broker a compromise between the House and Senate versions of the bill, meaning Abbott is highly unlikely to veto it. Instead, he is expected to either sign it into law, or allow it to become law without a signature.
