The bill introduced by VanDeaver seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for consumable hemp products in Texas by amending the Health and Safety Code. It defines "consumable hemp product" as any product suitable for human ingestion, absorption, or inhalation that contains hemp or hemp-derived cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol or cannabigerol. The legislation imposes new licensing requirements for manufacturers and retailers, including a $10,000 initial licensing fee and a $20,000 annual registration fee per location. It mandates testing for cannabinoid concentration and contaminants, prohibits the sale of products containing cannabinoids other than those specified, and establishes penalties for violations. Additionally, it restricts individuals with felony convictions related to controlled substances from holding registrations or governing positions in registered businesses for a designated period.

The bill also introduces specific labeling requirements for consumable hemp products, including batch identification and cannabinoid concentrations, and mandates tamper-evident and child-resistant packaging. It classifies offenses related to the distribution and sale of unregistered products as Class B misdemeanors and prohibits marketing that appeals to minors, with violations classified as Class A misdemeanors. Furthermore, it outlines criminal offenses for manufacturing and possessing products with unauthorized cannabinoids, establishes penalties for selling to minors, and includes provisions for community service and potential license revocation for retailers. The bill repeals certain existing provisions and requires new rules to be adopted by February 1, 2026, ensuring that the updated regulations apply to all relevant activities occurring after the effective date of the Act, which is set to take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 431.011, Health and Safety Code 443.001, Health and Safety Code 443.051, 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 443.204, Health and Safety Code 443.205, Health and Safety Code 443.206, Health and Safety Code 443.207 (Health and Safety Code 431, Health and Safety Code 443)