Texas Lawmakers Push for Ban on Synthetic Hemp-Derived THC Consumables

AUSTIN — Proponents of banning synthetic hemp-derived THC consumables are trying to build support for Texas’ recently expanded medical marijuana program, stressing that it provides a safer and more effective alternative to the unregulated vapes and gummies being sold in gas stations across the state.

“Cannabis is what has saved the lives of so many veterans in this country, but this unregulated version of cannabis is dangerous,” Sen. Roland Gutierrez, D-San Antonio, said in a Capitol news conference Wednesday promoting the Texas Compassionate Use Program.

Opposition to Synthetic Hemp-Derived THC Consumables

A proposal to outlaw most of the consumable products containing hemp-derived tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound in cannabis plants such as marijuana, is picking up speed during the session. Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed a similar ban last month and said publicly several times this week that he opposes a total prohibition on hemp-derived THC consumables.

Legislation that would place age limits, packaging requirements, and regulate THC derived from hemp in a way that is similar to how the state oversees alcohol — a plan Abbott has said he would support — is expected to be filed in the House this week.

Background on the Issue

A similar bill failed during the regular session earlier this year, mainly because it had no backing in the Senate, where Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has adamantly opposed anything other than a total ban on the $8 billion retail industry that has grown to some 8,500 retailers in the past five years.

Abbott has already signed legislation banning synthetic hemp-based THC vapes, along with outlawing the sale of devices for nonintoxicating substances like nicotine with parts made in adversarial countries, namely China.

Texas Compassionate Use Program

Gutierrez, who supports legalizing both medical and recreational marijuana like dozens of other states have done, said Wednesday he voted for the ban on the entire retail market because lawmakers expanded the medical marijuana program, known as TCUP.

The push to ban those products faced intense backlash both from retailers who have invested millions into their businesses after their products were legalized through federal and state farm bills in 2019. It also brought strong, vocal resistance from veterans who said the medical marijuana program was insufficient.

Benefits of the Texas Compassionate Use Program

Created about 10 years ago and still considered one of the more narrow medical marijuana programs in the nation, TCUP has about 116,000 active participants. The program got a shot in the arm earlier this year when lawmakers increased the number of allowed licensees from three to 15 and put a number of other measures in place that they promised would widely increase access to medical-grade, prescription-only THC from marijuana.

Those measures include increasing the concentration of THC allowed in doses, letting customers use inhalers or vaporizers to access the medication, and allowing for more dispensary and storage sites across the state so prices can come down, deliveries can be faster and pickup is easier for more people.

Challenges Facing the Program

Even after the expansion, the program has miles to go before it can effectively serve those who still seek out hemp-derived cannabinoids such as THC-A for problems with appetite, sleep and anxiety problems, several people testified in a Senate committee on Tuesday.

The program does not supply patients with official ID cards stating that they’re in the program, jeopardizing them if they are found to be with a prescription, said Susan Hays, an attorney and lobbyist, and a member of the Texas Department of Public Safety’s TCUP advisory commission.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the debate over synthetic hemp-derived THC consumables in Texas is complex and multifaceted. While some lawmakers are pushing for a ban on these products, others are advocating for a more regulated approach. The Texas Compassionate Use Program provides a safer and more effective alternative to unregulated vapes and gummies, but it still faces challenges in terms of accessibility and affordability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Texas Compassionate Use Program?

A: The Texas Compassionate Use Program is a medical marijuana program that provides safe and legal access to medical cannabis for patients with certain qualifying conditions.

Q: What are the benefits of the Texas Compassionate Use Program?

A: The benefits of the program include increased access to medical-grade, prescription-only THC from marijuana, as well as the ability to use inhalers or vaporizers to access the medication.

Q: What are the challenges facing the program?

A: The program faces challenges in terms of accessibility and affordability, as well as the lack of official ID cards for patients and the risk of drug tests for patients on probation or parole.

Q: What is the current status of the proposal to ban synthetic hemp-derived THC consumables?

A: The proposal is currently picking up speed during the session, with legislation expected to be filed in the House this week. However, Gov. Greg Abbott has expressed opposition to a total prohibition on hemp-derived THC consumables.