A person weighs hemp buds at a retail store.
Sales of THC-containing hemp remain largely unregulated in Texas. Credit: Unsplash / Budding

After efforts to rein in the state’s growing hemp industry fell apart in the Texas Legislature, Gov. Greg Abbott will issue an executive order regulating the sale of THC, including a 21-and-up age requirement, the Texas Tribune reports.

The Tribune said it based its reporting on conversations with three individuals familiar with the governor’s plans. Those people told the news outlet that they saw a document outlining a potential framework for the rules. Still, they emphasized that the details aren’t yet final.

The rules in the outline reportedly include:

  • 21-and-up age requirement to purchase THC products
  • Required ID checks
  • Retailers must be located a certain distance from schools
  • Labeling requirements for THC products
  • Products must be tested for THC content levels
  • Increased fees for THC businesses

In June, Abbott slapped a surprise veto on a proposal from the GOP-controlled Texas Legislature that would ban the sale of all hemp products containing THC, the compound in cannabis that gets people high. The veto followed a letter-writing campaign from veterans and others who said they use the products for relief from PTSD, chronic pain and other ailments.

At the time, the Republican governor urged lawmakers to pass legislation that would regulate Texas’ estimated $8 billion hemp industry much like the state does with alcohol. Hemp industry officials largely supported those provisions and lobbied for their passage.

However, Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who controls the agenda of the Texas Senate, refused to play ball, again championing legislation that would impose an all-out THC ban. The second special session ended last week with an impasse on the matter, leaving the hemp industry largely unregulated.

Although Abbott declined to comment on the Tribune’s reporting about a potential executive order, he appeared to leave the prospect open during public appearance.

When reporters asked the governor whether he would wait until the Lege convenes again in 2027 to pass a THC bill, he urged them to “stay tuned,” according to the Tribune.

“Something may be happening soon.” he said.

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This article appears in Sep 3-17, 2025.

Sanford Nowlin is editor-in-chief of the San Antonio Current. He holds degrees from Trinity University and the University of Texas at San Antonio, and his work has been featured in Salon, Alternet, Creative...