The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has adopted emergency rules that ban the sale of consumable hemp products to individuals under 21 years old. The new regulations apply to all licensed and registered sellers in the state and take effect immediately.
These emergency rules are a response to Governor Greg Abbott’s executive order aimed at protecting minors from access to hemp and hemp-derived products. Under the new policy, anyone selling consumable hemp must verify that buyers are at least 21 by checking a valid ID. Violations could result in penalties, including the loss of a license or registration.
“The rules define a minor as a person under 21 years of age, require consumable hemp sellers to verify purchasers have a valid ID that shows they are at least 21 years old, and provide for penalties including the revocation of a license or registration for violations,” according to DSHS.
The emergency measures can remain active for up to 120 days with an option for one extension lasting up to 60 days. Meanwhile, DSHS is beginning work on permanent regulations that will include opportunities for public comment once proposed rules are published.
DSHS has also stated it will keep licensees and registrants informed about further rule development through updates on its website.
