Texas Pushes for Hemp Ban: What SB 5 Means? 

The future of hemp in Texas is on shaky ground again. This week, a new bill known as the SB 5 has been moved quickly through a Texas Senate committee with a 10–0 vote. If passed, the bill would make almost all hemp products illegal in the state. It would only allow two cannabinoids: CBD and CBG, both of which are non-intoxicating. This decision has sparked concern and confusion across the state. To better understand what this bill means for small business owners, farmers, and consumers, we did a deeper dive into the whole issue at Jolly Green Life. In this blog, we will go into the details of the bill, what it means, and how it can impact hemp users. 

✦ What’s SB 5 All About?

SB 5, introduced by Senator Charles Perry, will ban any hemp product with a detectable amount of THC or other cannabinoids besides CBD and CBG. That includes popular products containing Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, which some say offer relief for anxiety, stress, or sleep issues. Senator Perry says the bill is going to protect the public, especially young people, from “intoxicating” products. He argues that some hemp companies are using “sneaky science” to get around current laws. We know that vocal supporters of the bill include law enforcement officials and political leaders who say regulation doesn’t work and that a total ban is the only solution.

✦ A Flip from Governor Abbott:

Just last month, Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a similar bill (SB 3). In this bill, he calls for regulation instead of an outright ban. However, now he seems to be shifting his stance. In a recent interview, Abbott said he wants to allow only hemp products with less than 3 milligrams of THC. This appears to conflict with SB 5, which would ban any detectable THC. Abbott says he’s still in favor of giving adults the freedom to use non-intoxicating products but wants to prevent access for minors.

✦ Pushback from Small Businesses and the Public

Many hemp business owners showed up at the hearing to express their concerns. They say SB 5 could shut down stores, kill thousands of jobs, and cut off access to products that help people. Some even said that law enforcement officers and emergency workers are regular customers. Many retailers have also pointed out that they already follow rules. They only sell such products to adults and use child-proof packaging. Others said the real issue is a lack of enforcement, not a need for a full ban.

✦ Veterans, Patients, and Families Speak Out

You’ll be surprised to know that not all opponents of SB 5 are in the hemp industry. Several Texans who use hemp products to manage PTSD, chronic pain, or anxiety said that the state’s medical marijuana program is too expensive and too limited. One speaker said she pays $75 for medical gummies while buying similar hemp gummies for just $16. At the same time, other users have said that banning affordable hemp products could push people toward the illegal market. Therefore, it will be less safe as the products will potentially include higher THC levels and harmful ingredients. 

✦ Considering the Bigger Picture:

Hemp was made legal nationwide in 2018, and Texas followed with its own rules in 2019. Since then, more than 8,000 retailers in Texas have started selling products like edibles, vapes, oils, and drinks. Experts say the industry brings in $300 million in tax revenue and supports over 50,000 jobs. However, we are sure that bills like SB 5 could change all that. Many supporters of the hemp industry say the better path forward is smart regulation, and that is definitely not prohibition. They’ve asked for rules like:

• Sales only to those 21 and older
• Clear warning labels and child-proof packaging
• Distance from schools and parks
• Strong penalties for selling to minors
• Permits for stores and manufacturers

✦ What Happens Next?

SB 5 is part of a special session called by Governor Abbott. Other new bills, like SB 39 and HB 160, will add warning labels and restrict packaging that could appeal to kids. Another bill, HB 42, would protect consumers from legal trouble if they unknowingly buy mislabeled hemp. For now, lawmakers and the governor are still trying to decide whether Texas will regulate hemp or ban it outright. The decision could shape the future of the state’s small businesses. This also includes consumer rights, and cannabis laws for years to come. To get more information about the SB 5, click here.

✦ Stay Updated on the Latest Hemp News with Jolly Green Life: 

As the debate continues, both sides are urging the public to stay informed and speak up. Whether you’re a hemp shop owner, a patient, or just a curious Texan, the choices made in the coming weeks will affect your daily life. At Jolly Green Life, we are paying close attention to what is happening and making sure you are updated on the latest proceedings. You can bookmark Jolly Green Life for further information and the legal status of hemp in your area.

✦ FAQs: 

1. What is Texas SB 5 and how does it affect hemp products?

SB 5 is a proposed Texas bill banning all hemp products with any detectable THC, allowing only CBD, CBG, and federally legal hemp seed products.

2. Will Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC products be banned in Texas?

Yes, SB 5 would ban hemp-derived Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC products by outlawing any product with THC or cannabinoids besides CBD and CBG.

3. Is Governor Abbott supporting a hemp ban in Texas now?

Governor Abbott recently said he supports non-intoxicating hemp, but his exact stance is unclear and may conflict with the strict SB 5 bill.

4. How will SB 5 impact small hemp businesses in Texas?

If passed, SB 5 could shut down many hemp retailers, affecting over 50,000 jobs and $300 million in yearly tax revenue statewide.

5. What alternatives to a hemp ban are being proposed in Texas?

Industry advocates support regulating hemp by setting age limits, labeling requirements, safety standards, and penalties—rather than passing a full statewide product ban.