The Texas Legislature is on the brink of passing sweeping legislation that would ban all THC-containing products, signaling a major shift for the state’s booming hemp industry and increasing the risk of criminal penalties for residents across South Texas.
On Wednesday, the Texas House gave preliminary approval to a bill that, if signed into law, would make it a criminal offense to possess any consumable hemp product with THC — even in trace amounts. This law would impose harsher penalties than current marijuana possession laws, with potential jail time of up to a year for a first offense.
At The Law Office of Shawn C. Brown, P.C., we are closely monitoring this development. These legal changes will have serious implications for everyday people in San Antonio and across South Texas, many of whom may not be aware that products they’ve legally purchased — including edibles, oils, vapes, or beverages — could soon land them in jail.
A Sudden Reversal on Hemp and THC in Texas
The new bill represents a major policy reversal just six years after Texas legalized the sale of consumable hemp in 2019. That move sparked a statewide economic boom, with thousands of retailers now selling popular THC-infused products. However, lawmakers are now citing concerns about youth exposure and unregulated marketing as reasons to shut down the industry altogether.
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and other proponents of the ban argue that retailers have exploited loopholes in the law and are marketing products to minors. But industry advocates dispute those claims and plan to challenge the law in court, calling the criticism overblown and harmful to legitimate businesses.
Under the proposed legislation:
- Possession of any consumable hemp product with THC would carry up to a year in jail.
- Manufacturing or distributing THC products could result in a third-degree felony (2 to 10 years in prison).
- Selling CBD or THC-related products without state registration could also be prosecuted as a felony.
- Marketing THC products to minors or selling to underage consumers would carry criminal charges and jail time.
What You Need to Know: Know Your Rights
This law will have serious and far-reaching consequences — and not just for business owners. Everyday Texans could find themselves charged with serious crimes for products that were previously legal and widely available.
If you are under investigation or facing charges related to THC or hemp products, you need experienced legal defense immediately. At The Law Office of Shawn C. Brown, P.C., we’ve been defending the rights of South Texans for over 25 years. Our team understands the complexities of drug laws and will fight to protect your freedom, your future, and your record.
Don’t Wait — Know Your Options
If you’ve been charged or fear you may be charged under the new THC laws, contact us right away. We will walk you through your rights, help you understand the legal changes, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Call us today 210-224-8200 or visit ShawnBrownLaw.com to schedule your consultation.
