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 new regulations, which take effect immediately, apply to all licensed and registered sellers of these products in Texas.
These emergency rules are part of the agency’s response to Governor Greg Abbott’s executive order aimed at protecting children from hemp and hemp-derived items. According to DSHS, “The rules define a minor as a person under 21 years of age, require consumable hemp sellers to verify purchasers have a valid ID that shows they are at least 21 years old, and provide for penalties including the revocation of a license or registration for violations.”
The rules can remain active for up to 120 days with an option for one 60-day extension. DSHS is also starting work on permanent regulations regarding the age restriction and other provisions related to the Governor’s directive. A public hearing will be scheduled after publication of proposed permanent rules, allowing citizens an opportunity to comment.
Licensees and registrants in the consumable hemp market can follow updates about rule changes through official DSHS channels.
