The bill introduced by VanDeaver amends the Health and Safety Code to establish comprehensive regulations for consumable hemp products and the hemp-derived cannabinoids they contain. It defines "consumable hemp product" as any product suitable for human ingestion, absorption, or inhalation that includes hemp or cannabinoids like cannabidiol or cannabigerol. The legislation imposes new licensing and registration requirements, including a $10,000 fee for processing locations and a $500 application fee for each consumable hemp product, which must be approved by the department before sale. Additionally, it mandates safety testing, prohibits the manufacture of products containing cannabinoids other than those specified, and requires labeling with a QR code linking to the department's registration list.

The bill also introduces penalties for violations, classifying the distribution or sale of unregistered hemp products as a Class B misdemeanor and establishing specific labeling and packaging requirements. It restricts sales to individuals under 21 years of age, with violations classified as Class A misdemeanors, and outlines penalties for misleading marketing practices. Furthermore, it includes provisions for administrative enforcement, allowing the department to investigate complaints and impose penalties on violators. The bill repeals certain existing sections of the Health and Safety Code and mandates the adoption of new rules by February 1, 2026, with the changes taking 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)