The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) has enacted emergency rules restricting sales of consumable hemp products that contain THC
Hemp THC gummies.
The move comes after Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order earlier this month calling for the change.
Approved at the commission’s meeting Tuesday, the rules ban sales of hemp-derived THC products to anyone under 21 and allow the state to revoke licenses for businesses that violate the restrictions. Bars, restaurants and other TABC-licensed venues are prohibited from selling THC items to minors, and customers of all ages must show valid government-issued photo identification to purchase them.
Governor Abbott directed state agencies to take immediate action after lawmakers failed to reach agreement on broader regulation during recent special sessions. While he vetoed a bill that would have banned all THC products, Abbott ordered tighter oversight, particularly to keep them out of the hands of minors. Under his directive, the Texas Department of State Health Services must also implement stricter testing and labeling requirements, with enforcement to be handled jointly by TABC and the Department of Public Safety.
The emergency rules take effect immediately, but enforcement will not begin until October 1. By law, such rules can remain active for up to 180 days.
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