Texas Hemp Industry in Jeopardy After SB3: 53,000 Jobs at Risk

Texas Hemp Industry Faces Uncertainty After SB3 Passage Austin, TX – The recent passage of Senate Bill 3 (SB3) in the Texas legislature has sent shockwaves through the state's hemp industry, raising concerns about the livelihoods of thousands of Texans. The bill's potential impact on 53,000 jobs and approximately 6,000 retail stores has prompted sharp criticism and calls for clarification from industry stakeholders. Hometown Hero, a prominent advocate for the hemp industry, released a video expressing concerns about the lack of consideration given to the consequences of SB3. "Three questions for Lt. Dan Patrick and the Texas legislature who voted to pass SB3 without giving any thought to the 53,000 Texans, 6,000 retail locations, and the thousands of veterans who rely on these products and this industry that was legalized in 2019." The video directly questions Lt. Governor Dan Patrick's plans to address the potential job losses and the financial burden on businesses. Many hemp retailers operate under leases, often personally guaranteed by the owners, increasing the risk of financial ruin. The lack of a clear plan to mitigate these risks is a major concern. The video also questions the transition from a regulated market, where products undergo testing, to a potentially unregulated environment, raising concerns about consumer safety and the potential for products to be laced with dangerous substances. The situation highlights the need for transparency and accountability from state lawmakers. The future of the Texas hemp industry hangs in the balance, and swift action is needed to address the concerns raised by industry representatives and advocates like Hometown Hero.