The ongoing legislative session in Texas is witnessing a contentious debate as lawmakers push for a statewide ban on hemp-derived THC products, igniting strong opposition from local business owners who advocate for comprehensive regulation rather than outright prohibition.

Senate Bill 5, recently passed by the Senate and now under consideration by the House, aims to eliminate what some legislators perceive as a regulatory loophole, prohibiting any amount of THC in hemp-derived goods. This legislative maneuver follows Governor Greg Abbott’s prior veto of similar measures, signaling a renewed push for stricter controls.

At the heart of this legislative pushback is Wyatt Larew, CEO of Wyatt Purp, a prominent retailer and manufacturer in the cannabis industry. Larew champions the governor’s initial stance on regulation, arguing that a blanket ban would unfairly penalize legitimate Texas businesses operating responsibly.

For half a decade, Larew has proactively implemented stringent self-regulatory measures, believing these products to be safe and natural. His business model mandates customers be 21 or older, with THC products securely stored and only accessible after rigorous ID verification, often exceeding current legal mandates for hemp regulation.

Larew acknowledges the existence of problematic “bad actors” within the industry who flout ethical practices. However, he asserts that their misconduct underscores the critical need for robust oversight and licensing, rather than a sweeping THC ban that would cripple compliant enterprises.

While the proposed legislation targets unregulated pop-up smoke shops, its broad scope threatens to devastate established businesses like Wyatt Purp that meticulously adhere to safety protocols and existing Texas law. Such a prohibition could inadvertently stifle legitimate economic activity and innovation.

As the House of Representatives takes up Senate Bill 5, the fate of low-level THC product sales hangs in the balance. Lawmakers are grappling with complex, competing interests: ensuring child safety, fostering responsible business advocacy, and preserving consumer access to regulated hemp-derived goods.

This legislative debate extends beyond simple prohibition; it reflects a broader struggle to define the future of the hemp and cannabis markets in Texas. The outcome will set a precedent for how the state balances public health concerns with economic realities and individual liberties, impacting countless small businesses and consumers statewide.