S.B. No. 335 establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the cultivation, manufacture, processing, distribution, sale, testing, transportation, delivery, transfer, possession, and use of cannabis and cannabis products in Texas by introducing Chapter 491 in the Health and Safety Code. The bill permits adults aged 21 and older to possess and use cannabis within specified limits, cultivate a limited number of plants for personal use, and transfer cannabis without remuneration under certain conditions. It outlines the responsibilities of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation in administering these new regulations, while also imposing licensing requirements and fees to cover administrative costs.

The legislation includes provisions for local elections to authorize cannabis operations within counties, with specific regulations regarding hours, locations, and business conduct. It prohibits the sale or distribution of cannabis products to minors, defines penalties for violations, and outlines acceptable forms of identification for age verification. Additionally, the bill amends various sections of the Agriculture and Government Codes to integrate cannabis-related licensing and regulatory frameworks, ensuring that the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation can begin licensing cannabis-related entities by November 1, 2026. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Agriculture Code 122.103, Government Code 411.093, Health and Safety Code 443.202, Health and Safety Code 443.2025, Health and Safety Code 481.062, Health and Safety Code 481.111, Occupations Code 551.004 (Government Code 411, Occupations Code 551, Health and Safety Code 481, Agriculture Code 122, Health and Safety Code 443)