AUSTIN (Nexstar) -- Governor Greg Abbott vetoed one of the most scrutinized bills of the legislative session -- a total ban on all consumable hemp products that contain the intoxicating chemical in cannabis -- less than a hour before the veto deadline.
Thousands of Texans on both sides of this issue sent petitions to the governor to sway his decision. Those against the bill said it would negatively impact farmers and small businesses. Others argued it would take away a medical option for many Texans who use the products to help with pain and other diseases.
The Hemp Industry and Farmers of America applauded the governor late Sunday night after the decision was announced. In a statement it said, "The hemp industry stands with the Governor's decision to allow this industry to prosper and thrive. The hemp industry welcomes the opportunity to work with the legislature to put forth common sense and thoughtful regulations that keep our children safe while protecting consumers."
Supporters of the bill say the hemp industry in Texas is not regulated when it comes to consumable hemp products containing THC. They also claimed the packaging of certain products could attract children.
Earlier this week, the Allen police department announced it seized more than 75,000 pounds of THC products at three different warehouses in Dallas. Police say the $7 million bust involved products with THC concentrations ranging from 7% to 78%, far above the state’s legal threshold of 0.3%.
Governor Abbott said on X that there is going to be a special legislative session when referencing the need to fix legislation designed to protect victims of human trafficking. It's unclear if Senate Bill 3 will be part of the special session.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, a huge supporter of the bill, took to social media to share his reaction to the veto. He said the governor had remained silent on the bill the entire session. "The bill that would have banned dangerous THC products in Texas. His late-night veto, on an issue supported by 105 of 108 Republicans in the legislature, strongly backed by law enforcement, many in the medical and education communities, and the families who have seen their loved ones’ lives destroyed by these very dangerous drugs, leaves them feeling abandoned. I feel especially bad for those who testified and poured their hearts out on their tragic losses."
He said he will hold a press conference on Monday.
The governor has vetoed 26 bills just before midnight on Sunday.
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