Texas Governor Greg Abbott is preparing to issue an executive order to regulate THC products and set a minimum purchase age of 21. This move comes after the state Legislature ended its second special session without reaching an agreement on THC laws. While Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick pushed for a complete ban, Abbott supports a regulated system similar to alcohol sales.
Abbott has hinted that the executive order could come soon, telling reporters to “stay tuned” during a recent bill signing. The plan would have the Department of State Health Services create rules for the sale and distribution of THC products. A draft framework seen by sources includes key elements like age limits, ID checks, distance rules from schools, product labeling, THC content testing, and higher fees for businesses.
The goal is to run THC sales like liquor stores, which could prevent supermarkets and other outlets that currently sell beer, wine, and THC from continuing those sales. Abbott suggested in a veto letter earlier this year that the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission might play a role in enforcing these rules.
The executive order would bring some order to Texas’ THC market, which has lacked clear rules amid differing opinions in the state government. It also signals Abbott’s preference for regulation over a total ban, contrasting with some lawmakers’ stance. The timeline for the executive order is not set, but it appears action could come in the near future.