Gov. Abbott On THC: Exec Order Shakeup!

Today, Gov. Abbott issued a sweeping executive order aimed at regulating hemp products that contain THC after Texas lawmakers failed to reach a consensus on how to handle the booming market. For three legislative sessions, proposals to either regulate or ban hemp-derived THC stalled. Now Gov. Abbott has decided to act on his own, framing the move as a way to protect children while preserving freedom for adults.

Under the new order, Gov. Abbott allows THC products to remain largely legal but directs state agencies to impose stricter rules. The Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission will be tasked with banning sales to minors, requiring ID checks, and increasing enforcement. Vendors who fail to comply with the new regulations risk losing their licenses — a direct signal from Gov. Abbott that the state means business.

The executive order also instructs health officials to review and strengthen existing testing and labeling requirements for THC products. According to Gov. Abbott , consumers deserve to know exactly what they're buying, and stronger oversight will bring much-needed clarity to the hemp industry.

Industry advocates see the move by Gov. Abbott as a victory, arguing that smart regulation will allow reputable businesses to flourish and push out bad actors. Susan Hayes, a lawyer and cannabis industry lobbyist, noted that while the Texas governor's power is more limited than that of the U.S. president, the steps Gov. Abbott is taking appear to be legally sound.

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