News Summary
In Texas, Sunmed is calling on Governor Greg Abbott to veto Senate Bill 3, warning that its passage could jeopardize over 53,000 jobs and significantly impact the hemp industry. Critics assert the bill threatens small businesses with hefty licensing fees and restricts available hemp products. As community opposition grows, the financial and health implications of the bill remain contentious topics. With the clock ticking, Sunmed encourages Texans to voice their concerns and urge the governor to take action.
Texas Faces Unprecedented Threat to Hemp Industry as Sunmed Calls for Veto of Senate Bill 3
In Texas, a significant legislative concern is emerging as Sunmed, a leading CBD company, is urging Governor Greg Abbott to veto Senate Bill 3 (SB 3). This proposed legislation poses a substantial threat to the livelihoods of numerous individuals in the state’s thriving hemp industry, which has steadily grown in the past few years.
53,000 Jobs at Risk
SB 3 is estimated to put more than 53,000 jobs at risk across Texas, impacting many small businesses that depend on the hemp sector for survival. The bill could lead to the closure of approximately 8,000 businesses, creating a drastic economic ripple effect across families, neighborhoods, and local economies.
The Financial Fallout
The Legislative Budget Board has projected that the financial impact of SB 3 could result in a net negative effect of approximately $19.27 million on general revenue-related funds for the biennium that ends on August 31, 2027. As time progresses, the financial toll of the bill could rise to an alarming $11.69 million by the year 2030, emphasizing a troubling outlook for Texas’s economic future should the bill be enacted.
Community Concerns and Opposition
Opposition to SB 3 has been widely voiced by the community, particularly during recent public hearings which showcased the prevailing sentiment against the bill. Many residents express concerns that SB 3 would limit acceptable hemp-derived products, narrowing the scope of available options solely to select forms of CBD and CBG, effectively banning numerous products that are THC-free and perceived as broad-spectrum.
Heavy Financial Burden
The proposed legislation doesn’t only threaten job security; it also imposes extravagant licensing fees that would bring financial strain to small-scale operators. Retailers could be liable for an annual fee of $20,000, while manufacturers would be forced to absorb a $10,000 annual cost, alongside an additional $500 per product. These prohibitive costs could result in many small businesses struggling to maintain operations.
Call to Action
Faced with such significant implications, Sunmed is actively calling upon Texans to voice their concerns and encourage Governor Abbott to veto SB 3. The bill has already passed through the Texas House by a score of 95-44 and has seen a vote of 25-6 in the Senate, placing urgency on advocates as they seek to halt its progress.
Health Concerns and Alternative Perspectives
The conversation surrounding SB 3 encompasses more than financial factors—it intersects with health implications as well. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has raised alarms regarding potential health issues related to THC use, including links to schizophrenia. However, advocates, including many veterans, propose that THC holds valuable roles in mental health management and chronic pain relief, showcasing the complex nature of the cannabis debate.
What’s Next?
Governor Abbott has not yet disclosed his position regarding SB 3, but he is expected to thoroughly consider the ramifications of the measure. Should the bill be officially signed into law, the prohibition on THC products is set to commence in September 2025. It is noteworthy that the Compassionate Use Program in Texas, which permits the medical use of marijuana under specific conditions, would remain unaffected by this proposed legislation.
The fate of Texas’s hemp industry now hinges on the decisive actions of Governor Abbott, as both lawmakers and residents anxiously await his verdict. The outcome of this legislative measure will resonate beyond business losses and will significantly impact the health and well-being of many Texans who rely on these hemp-derived products.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- ABC13 News
- CBS News
- Fox 4 News
- KCEN News
- Star-Telegram
- Wikipedia: Cannabis in Texas
- Google Search: Texas THC Ban
- Google Scholar: Texas THC legislation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hemp
- Google News: Texas Senate Bill 3
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
