Don’t Ban THC in Texas: How Smart Regulation Can Benefit Everyone

It looks like Texas is at a pivotal moment in its approach to cannabis. While recreational marijuana remains illegal in the state, a booming market for hemp-derived THC products has emerged thanks to a loophole in the 2018 federal farm bill. However, the largely unregulated nature of this industry has raised concerns among lawmakers, some of whom are calling for an outright ban on all THC products.

The proposed ban from Lieutenant Governor of Texas Dan Patrick risks eliminating access to valuable wellness tools like CBD oils and topicals, which have provided relief to countless Texans. Instead of resorting to prohibition, Texas should focus on implementing regulations to ensure consumer safety while preserving the economic and therapeutic benefits of hemp-derived products.

How Texas Became a THC Hub

In 2018, Congress legalized hemp through the federal farm bill, distinguishing it from marijuana based on its low THC content. Texas followed suit, passing its hemp legislation in 2019 to allow farmers to cultivate hemp for products like textiles and paper. What lawmakers didn’t anticipate was the explosive growth of the hemp-derived THC market, which now includes edibles, beverages, and vapes.

Today, Texas has over 7,000 cannabis dispensaries, nearly double the number in California. offering products that provide psychoactive effects similar to marijuana. This has made Texas a major player in the national cannabis industry. Yet the lack of oversight has also brought challenges, such as inconsistent product quality, sales to minors, and concerns over public health and safety.

The Benefits of CBD Oil

CBD oil, a non-psychoactive product derived from hemp, has become a staple for many Texans seeking natural remedies for a variety of health concerns. Its therapeutic properties have made it one of the most popular cannabis products on the market.

1. Pain Management

One of the most well-documented benefits of CBD oil is its ability to alleviate chronic pain. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, CBD helps reduce inflammation and pain signals. Texans with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and nerve pain have found relief through CBD oil, often as a safer alternative to prescription painkillers.

2. Mental Health Support

Anxiety and depression are widespread issues, and CBD oil has emerged as a promising tool for managing these conditions. Its calming effects can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and promote emotional balance without the side effects associated with traditional medications like benzodiazepines.

3. Improved Sleep

For individuals struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality, CBD oil offers a natural solution. By addressing underlying issues like anxiety or physical discomfort, CBD can help users fall asleep faster and enjoy more restful nights.

4. Accessibility

Unlike prescription medications, CBD oil is widely accessible and does not require a doctor’s approval. This ease of access has made it a lifeline for individuals seeking affordable and non-addictive solutions to their health concerns.

CBD Topicals: Targeted Relief Without Psychoactive Effects

Another category of hemp-derived products that has gained significant popularity is CBD topicals, including creams, balms, and lotions. These products are applied directly to the skin and deliver localized relief without entering the bloodstream or causing psychoactive effects.

1. Localized Pain Relief

CBD topicals are particularly effective for targeted pain relief. Athletes, seniors, and people with injuries frequently use them to soothe sore muscles, alleviate joint pain, and reduce inflammation. The ability to focus treatment on a specific area makes topicals an attractive option for many.

2. Skin Health Benefits

CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties benefit skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. CBD topicals can improve skin health and appearance by calming irritation and reducing redness.

3. A Non-Invasive Option

For individuals who are hesitant to ingest CBD or THC, topicals provide a safe and non-invasive alternative. These products allow users to experience the therapeutic benefits of hemp without affecting their daily routines or cognitive functions.

The Case for Regulation

While the benefits of CBD oils and topicals are undeniable, the current state of Texas’ hemp market highlights the need for oversight. Investigations have revealed issues, including products that exceed legal THC limits, and contamination with heavy metals and pesticides. These problems are not inherent to hemp-derived products but rather the result of inadequate regulation.

A well-regulated market would address these concerns while preserving the industry’s economic and therapeutic benefits. Here’s how regulation could improve the situation:

1. Ensuring Product Safety

Mandatory testing and clear labeling would ensure all hemp-derived products meet safety and quality standards. Consumers would be able to trust that the products they purchase are free from harmful contaminants and accurately labeled with their THC content.

2. Protecting Minors

One of the most pressing concerns is the sale of THC products to minors. Age restrictions, similar to those applied to alcohol and tobacco, would prevent underage access and address this critical issue.

3. Supporting the Economy

The hemp industry in Texas supports an estimated 60,000 jobs and generates billions of dollars in revenue. Regulation would allow the state to preserve these economic benefits while fostering a safer and more transparent market.

4. Reducing Black Market Activity

The availability of legal THC products has significantly reduced demand for black market marijuana. For example, Border Patrol seizures of illegal cannabis along the Southwest border have dropped by 72% since 2021. Regulation would further solidify this shift by ensuring that legal products remain accessible and affordable.

The Consequences of Prohibition

The banning of THC products outright would have far-reaching negative consequences for consumers, businesses, and public safety. Prohibition would force many Texans to turn back to the black market for unregulated and potentially unsafe products. It would also eliminate a growing industry that has provided significant economic benefits to the state.

For individuals who rely on THC and CBD products for relief, a ban would be devastating. Veterans, for instance, have been vocal about the role these products play in managing PTSD and other combat-related conditions. 

A Balanced Path Forward

Texas has an opportunity to lead by example in the cannabis industry. By implementing sensible regulations, the state can address concerns about public safety while preserving the economic and therapeutic benefits of hemp-derived products. Key measures could include:

• Testing Requirements: Ensure all products meet safety standards.
• Age Restrictions: Prohibit sales to minors.
• Licensing and Oversight: Create a transparent system for producers and sellers.
• Consumer Education: Provide clear information about the benefits and risks of cannabis products.

Prohibition is not the answer. Regulation offers a balanced approach that protects consumers, supports businesses, and addresses public safety concerns.

In Conclusion

The debate over THC in Texas represents a crossroads for the state. Lawmakers must decide whether to move forward with thoughtful regulation or revert to prohibition, a step that would harm consumers and stifle economic growth. CBD oils and topicals have become essential wellness tools for many Texans, offering relief from pain, anxiety, and other health challenges.

Instead of banning these products, Texas should embrace regulation as a means to ensure safety and accessibility. By taking this path, the state can preserve the benefits of the hemp industry while addressing legitimate concerns, proving that progress and responsibility can go hand in hand.