H.B. No. 28 seeks to regulate consumable hemp products in Texas by establishing a comprehensive framework for registration, licensing, and compliance. The bill amends the definition of "consumable hemp product" to include items containing hemp-derived cannabinoids while excluding certain substances. It introduces licensing fees for manufacturers and retailers, with an initial fee of $5,000 and a renewal fee of $2,500 for each processing location. Retailers are required to register and pay an annual fee of $2,000 for each location selling consumable hemp products. The bill also clarifies that low-THC cannabis is not subject to these regulations.

Additionally, the bill creates new criminal offenses related to the marketing and packaging of consumable hemp products, particularly those that may appeal to minors or mislead consumers. It mandates testing for cannabinoid concentration and contaminants before sale and emphasizes clear labeling of product contents and effects. The bill establishes criteria for the sale of out-of-state consumable hemp products, introduces penalties for violations based on THC concentration and purchaser age, and allows the Department of State Health Services to enforce regulations. Several sections of existing law are repealed to streamline the regulatory process, with the changes set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 443.001, Health and Safety Code 443.104, Health and Safety Code 443.151, Health and Safety Code 443.152, Health and Safety Code 443.2025, Health and Safety Code 443.203, Health and Safety Code 443.205, Health and Safety Code 443.206 (Health and Safety Code 443)