Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has issued an executive order instructing several Texas state agencies to take immediate steps to protect children from hemp-derived products. The order tasks the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) with implementing new measures, following the Texas Legislature's decision not to pass a ban on sales of hemp products to individuals under 21.

“Texas will not wait when it comes to protecting children and families,” said Governor Abbott. “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.”

Under the executive order, DSHS and TABC must prohibit sales of hemp-derived products to minors. Retailers will be required to verify government-issued identification at the point of sale, with failure to comply resulting in license revocation. DSHS is also directed to review its existing regulations for potential updates, including strengthening testing and labeling standards, increasing licensing fees for better enforcement, and improving recordkeeping practices.

The agencies—DSHS, TABC, and DPS—are instructed to coordinate enforcement efforts statewide in collaboration with local law enforcement.

Additionally, TABC, DSHS, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and other agencies will study a regulatory model similar to House Bill 309. This model aims to create a system that increases safety and transparency while allowing responsible adult access.