S.B. No. 335 establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for cannabis in Texas by creating Chapter 491 in the Health and Safety Code. The bill allows 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, which will oversee the licensing and regulation of cannabis growers, establishments, and testing facilities. The bill also mandates that fees collected be deposited into a cannabis regulation account and requires local authorization for cannabis operations through elections held in respective counties.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to protect individuals engaging in authorized cannabis activities from legal action, while prohibiting certain behaviors such as operating a vehicle while intoxicated. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining qualifications for license holders, including background checks, and mandates compliance with testing and labeling rules. The legislation also prohibits the sale of cannabis products to minors, defines penalties for violations, and amends various sections of the Agriculture and Government Codes to align with the new regulations. The Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation is tasked with implementing these regulations by July 1, 2026, with the licensing process for cannabis-related businesses beginning by November 1, 2026, and the bill 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 (Agriculture Code 122, Government Code 411, Health and Safety Code 481, Health and Safety Code 443, Occupations Code 551)