SB 3 Vetoed: Why Governor Abbott Rejected the THC Ban—and What Comes Next

👀 Governor Abbott’s SB 3 Texas Veto Halts THC Ban

On June 22, 2025, Texans woke to significant news: Governor Greg Abbott vetoed Senate Bill 3 (SB 3 Texas veto), stopping a controversial effort to criminalize many popular hemp-derived THC products, including delta-8 Texas and delta-9 gummies Texas. The bill aimed to ban the sale and possession of these products entirely, effective September 1, 2025.

Governor Abbott’s decisive Texas THC ban veto sends a clear message: the booming $8 billion Texas hemp industry, supporting over 53,000 local jobs, deserves careful regulation—not prohibition. His veto ensures that, at least temporarily, consumers and businesses dealing in hemp-derived THC Texas products can continue operations legally and safely.

💡 Why Did Governor Abbott Veto the Texas THC Ban?

In his official veto statement, Governor Abbott explained that while SB 3’s intentions were to protect Texans, its outright prohibition approach risked unintended consequences. Primarily, Abbott cited conflicts with federal guidelines established by the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% THC nationwide.

Governor Abbott emphasized that abruptly banning hemp-derived THC products like delta-8 and delta-9 gummies could lead to costly lawsuits and regulatory confusion. Criminalizing responsible Texas consumers and veterans who rely on these products for anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain would be neither fair nor effective.

Instead, Abbott urged lawmakers to embrace robust and clear Texas hemp THC regulations. He suggested the state could better manage public safety by enforcing age restrictions, accurate potency labeling, product testing, and stronger consumer protections rather than an outright ban. His veto effectively places the issue at the center of the Texas special legislative session July 2025, where lawmakers will craft smarter, more sustainable rules.

✅ What the SB 3 Texas Veto Means for You

Governor Abbott’s Texas THC ban veto provides immediate relief for thousands of Texans who rely on these products. Here’s exactly how this decision affects you:

• Legal status maintained: For now, products containing hemp-derived THC Texas, including delta-8 and delta-9 gummies, remain legal statewide.

• Economic security: Small businesses in the Texas hemp industry remain operational, protecting over 53,000 jobs and significant local revenue.

• Regulatory clarity coming soon: Rather than a blanket prohibition, Abbott called for new rules on labeling, age-verification, testing, and potency caps during the upcoming Texas special legislative session July 2025.

• Medical Marijuana Access Unchanged: Patients enrolled in the Texas Compassionate Use Program will not face sudden restrictions or forced shifts in their treatment options. Medical cannabis access and prescriptions under Texas medical marijuana regulations remain stable.

While SB 3 tackled hemp-derived THC products, Texas also recently approved major changes to medical marijuana access through HB 46, significantly expanding eligible medical conditions, product forms, and prescription options for Texans enrolled in the Compassionate Use Program. Learn more about the HB 46 expansion here.

🛠 How Floweret MD Supports You Through the Regulatory Changes

At Floweret MD, our mission remains helping Texans safely navigate legislative shifts and maintain uninterrupted care:

• Personalized Consultations: Not sure how upcoming Texas hemp THC regulations may impact your current product choices? Our team can guide you toward compliant, safe, and effective alternatives.

• Stay Informed: Join our mailing list to stay updated on changes to the Texas hemp law 2025, as we provide clear, actionable guidance in real-time.

• Easy Transition to Medical Cannabis: Should future regulations limit your preferred products, Floweret MD is ready to help you secure a Texas medical marijuana prescription quickly through our straightforward telemedicine evaluations.

Have questions or need clarity on your options?
Schedule a convenient telemedicine consultation ..

📚 References

• Governor Abbott Official Veto Statement

• San Antonio Express-News, “Abbott vetoes Texas THC ban, saving hemp industry,” June 23, 2025

• Texas Tribune, “Gov. Greg Abbott vetoes THC ban, calls for regulation instead,” June 23, 2025

• FOX 7 Austin, “Abbott places THC regulation on special-session agenda,” June 23, 2025

• KBTX News, “Gov. Abbott vetoes THC ban,” June 23, 2025

• GoodRx Health, “Delta-8 THC: Legality and Uses,” May 2025

📝 Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult qualified legal and healthcare professionals about your specific circumstances.