Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed an executive order directing state agencies to ban hemp product sales to minors and strengthen enforcement measures across the state.
The September 10 order tasks the Department of State Health Services, Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, and Department of Public Safety with implementing immediate safeguards after lawmakers failed to pass age restrictions during the recent legislative session.
“Texas will not wait when it comes to protecting children and families,” Abbott said in a press release. “While these products would still benefit from the kind of comprehensive regulation set by the Texas Legislature for substances like alcohol and tobacco, my executive order makes sure that kids are kept safe and parents have peace of mind now, and that consumers know the products they purchase are tested and labeled responsibly.”
The directive requires retailers to verify government-issued identification for all purchases of hemp products. Businesses that fail to comply risk losing their licenses.
State health officials must also review current regulations to strengthen testing requirements and improve product labeling. The order calls for increased licensing fees to support enhanced enforcement efforts.
Texas AG Commissioner Sid Miller praised the governor for the executive order:
“Governor Greg Abbott deserves praise for protecting minors from THC products while respecting the rights of responsible, law-abiding adults. Protecting our kids and defending our freedoms do not need to be at odds,” Miller said in a news release. “I’ve always supported cracking down on intoxicating THC products sold over the counter without age limits, and I’m pleased to see the Governor’s Executive Order offer common-sense solutions.”
Multiple state agencies will study potential regulatory frameworks similar to House Bill 309. The research aims to develop what officials describe as a “safe, transparent, and enforceable system” balancing consumer access with public safety concerns.