State Of Texas: Smokable Hemp Ban Takes Effect, Businesses Work To Adapt
Business owners say the impact is immediate
A new state rule banning the sale of intoxicating hemp flower is now in effect in Texas. Business owners say the impact is immediate.
The change became official on March 31, the effective date of a new Department of State Health Services (DSHS) rule change on the definition of THC in hemp flower.
Previously, hemp was defined as a cannabis plant with less than 0.3% Total THC. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Delta-9 THC, commonly just known as THC, is a naturally-occurring chemical compound which grants users the “high” feeling.
While 0.3% is not enough THC to make smokers feel any significant effects, Tetrahydrocannabinol Acid (THCA) could legally be found at any limit. When the THCA is exposed to heat (like being smoked), it decarboxylates — turning about 88% of the THCA into THC.
“Hemp flower could still be sold as long as it has less than a total 0.3% THC level, but that’s not the bulk of the market demand,” Katharine Harris, a fellow in drug policy at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, said.
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