Governor Greg Abbott has vetoed Senate Bill 3, rejecting a sweeping attempt to ban hemp-derived THC products in Texas. The veto is a major win for economic freedom, public safety, and the thousands of Texans who enjoy these products responsibly.

SB 3, driven by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Senator Charles Perry, sought to outlaw nearly all consumable hemp products—including THC products that are available nationwide. Patrick’s public campaign relied on fear-based messaging, including a widely mocked press tour where he tossed THC edibles at reporters. Even members of his own party criticized the spectacle as political theater and out of touch with conservative values of limited government and economic liberty.

The hemp industry in Texas supports over 8,500 retailers and generates $5.5–8 billion annually. SB 3 would have eliminated thousands of jobs and forced small businesses to shut down. Worse, it would have returned Texas to an era of criminalization—potentially reviving the 60,000+ annual arrests for cannabis that occurred prior to hemp legalization.

Governor Abbott’s veto sets us on a better path forward. Urge policymakers to support sensible, enforceable regulation during the special session, which is set to begin on July 21. With the right framework—focused on age limits, labeling, potency caps, and enforcement—Texas can protect consumers without sacrificing liberty or economic opportunity.

Abbott’s decision is a powerful stand against fear-driven policymaking and a signal that Texas will not be dragged backward. Instead, the state can lead with smart, fair, and forward-looking cannabis policy.