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 rules, which are effective immediately, apply to all licensed and registered sellers of these products in Texas.
According to DSHS, the new measures are a response to Governor Greg Abbott’s executive order aimed at protecting children from hemp and hemp-derived items. The emergency rules define a minor as anyone under the age of 21 and require sellers to check identification to confirm buyers meet the minimum age requirement. Penalties for noncompliance include possible revocation of licenses or registrations.
“These rules are DSHS’s first step in implementing Governor Greg Abbott’s executive order to protect children from hemp and hemp-derived products,” the agency stated.
The emergency rules can remain in effect for up to 120 days, with an option for a single 60-day extension. Meanwhile, DSHS has started work on permanent regulations that would enforce the same age restrictions and other elements included in the governor’s directive. As part of this process, there will be an opportunity for public comment during a hearing once draft rules are published.
The department encourages consumable hemp licensees and retail registrants to follow updates about rulemaking and implementation through official channels.
