What this is
Texas lawmakers propose new rules for growing and selling hemp products, including drinks with hemp ingredients.
House Bill 309 creates new rules for Texas hemp farming and products. The bill sets up a Texas Hemp Council to oversee the hemp industry. It covers consumable hemp products, hemp beverages, and hemp-derived cannabinoids—the active substances in hemp.
Businesses that grow or handle hemp must get licenses and permits from the state. Applications must include the exact location where hemp will be grown, using GPS coordinates. Applicants must give written permission for state inspectors to visit their farms. They must also confirm they are U.S. citizens or legal residents.
The bill gives important powers to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. The state department of agriculture will work with this service to manage hemp production. This partnership helps bring knowledge and expertise to farmers across Texas. The extension service can receive funding from application fees and other sources to do this work.
The state will charge fees for licenses and can issue civil penalties for rule violations. The bill allows for criminal charges in serious cases. Texas follows federal hemp rules under the Farm Bill. This new law aligns Texas regulations with what the federal government requires.
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Testing of hemp products must follow state standards. Products with cannabinoids must be tested to make sure they are safe. The bill also creates rules for hemp beverages alongside other consumable hemp products. Nonconsumable hemp products—like cloth, fiber, paper, and plastics made from hemp—have different rules.
Key details
- Bill number: HB 309
- Sponsor: Briscoe Cain
- Status: Introduced
- Last action date: August 28, 2025
About Texas Legislature
The Texas Legislature is the state legislature of Texas, consisting of the House of Representatives with 150 members and the Senate with 31 members. Meeting in regular session every two years, the legislature passes stat…
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Why it matters
This is part of Our Health — health, wellness, and caring for each other.
How this affects households
Under $30,000
New hemp jobs in farming and processing could provide work opportunities. Hemp products may become more available and affordable with better regulation.
$30,000-$60,000
Could benefit from new hemp industry jobs or small farming opportunities. Regulated hemp products may be safer and more reliable to buy.
$60,000-$100,000
May see small business opportunities in hemp processing or retail. Otherwise, this mainly affects product safety and availability rather than household finances.
Over $100,000
Could invest in hemp farming or processing businesses, but high license fees and regulations may limit smaller investments. Main impact is on investment opportunities.
How to get involved
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