The burgeoning hemp industry in Texas is facing mounting scrutiny, with a state senator calling for a complete ban on hemp products due to concerns about regulation.
During a recent Senate Committee on State Affairs hearing, Texas Senator Charles Perry expressed alarm over the $8 billion industry’s rapid growth, arguing that it has become uncontrollable. Perry asserted that hemp products are inherently problematic due to the perceived lack of effective regulation. “Don’t deceive yourself,” he stated, “There’s nothing good in this product because you’re not able to control it.”
This stance has sparked pushback from businesses like Austin-based Hometown Hero, which is actively fighting to keep Delta-8 products legal in the Texas Supreme Court. Cynthia Cabrera, the company’s chief strategy officer, strongly disagrees with Senator Perry’s assessment, emphasizing that Hometown Hero’s products adhere to strict regulations.
Cabrera points to the Texas Administrative Code, which mandates that hemp products undergo testing by accredited labs, with certificates of analysis (COAs) made available to the Department of Health. She argues that this process ensures the quality and safety of their products.
However, enforcement limitations have emerged as a significant challenge. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is responsible for inspecting hemp businesses, but their limited resources restrict inspections to once every five years. A DSHS spokesperson acknowledged that the influx of new licenses has further complicated their ability to effectively enforce regulations.
Recent events have intensified scrutiny on hemp businesses. In Houston, the owners of a popular THC store chain were arrested for money laundering and marijuana possession after an investigation revealed that pre-roll products labeled as hemp contained marijuana. Similar raids occurred in Allen City, where THC levels in products reached 70%.
David Sergi, a cannabis attorney representing multiple businesses, argues that these companies are being unfairly targeted, emphasizing that all their products have COAs. Sergi also points a finger at Senator Perry’s lack of action, claiming that his inaction has contributed to the gaps in regulation.
As the legal status of Delta-8 remains pending a Supreme Court ruling, the future of hemp products in Texas remains uncertain. The debate over regulation, enforcement, and the perceived risks associated with hemp products has taken center stage in the Lone Star State, raising questions about the industry’s long-term viability.