THC

Fort Worth business owners worry the THC industry in Texas could be crippled after Congress closed a 2018 cannabis loophole.

More than 6,000 Texas smoke shops and related businesses could be forced to shut down if the ban goes into effect next November as scheduled. The industry is organizing a lobbying effort to get Congress to rewrite the law from a blanket prohibition to a regulatory approach.

Beau Whitney, a consultant to the hemp and cannabis industries, said, at a minimum, the new federal ban on THC-containing hemp products will displace more than 40,000 Texas workers and shutter more than 6,300 Texas businesses.

Now, nine large boxes filled with the product sit in the back of Arneson’s store after a new law banning the sale of THC vape pens went into effect Sept. 1. Although some prepared for the loss in sales, many smoke shops are now exploring new avenues of revenue.

The statewide survey found that more voters disapprove of the mid-decade redraw than support it, fueled by overwhelming opposition from independent and Democratic voters.

The executive order comes after the Legislature ended a special session without the House, Senate and governor agreeing on restrictions.

A new state law outlaws sales of any vapes containing cannabinoids that would otherwise be legal in Texas, but possession is not explicitly prohibited.

Denton smoke shop owners were relieved when Senate Bill 3, which proposed banning all consumable THC products statewide, was vetoed by Gov. Greg Abbott in June. However, around the same time, Abbott approved a different piece of legislation targeting cannabis sales and sales tactics that appeal to minors.

Democrats fled the state to stop Republicans’ attempt to redraw congressional districts, but bills aimed at everything from a THC product ban to bolstering flood response are now in doubt.

CBD and CBG, cannabinoids that aren't psychoactive, would be available to those 21 and over.

With a week down and about three to go, will officials be able to get everything done?

Although Patrick and hemp industry leaders have quarreled over the risks and benefits of THC, cannabis researchers say it can be addictive but doesn’t usually cause widespread psychosis or brain damage.