Texas SB 3: Legalizing Hemp-Derived Products in 2025

In a major shift for the Texas cannabis and wellness industries, Senate Bill 3 (SB 3) is poised to redefine how hemp-derived cannabinoids — including delta-8, delta-9 (within legal limits), and CBD — are sold, regulated, and consumed in the Lone Star State.

The bill, passed by the Texas Legislature and awaiting final enactment, outlines clear frameworks for licensing, testing, and labeling of consumable hemp products — including edibles, beverages, tinctures, and vapes.

Here’s what you need to know.

🌿 What Does SB 3 Do?

At its core, SB 3 seeks to bring consistency and regulation to a growing (and often confusing) hemp industry in Texas. Specifically, the bill:

• ✅ Legalizes the sale of hemp-derived consumables, including delta-8 and low-THC delta-9 products, under specific guidelines

• 🧪 Establishes mandatory testing for product potency and contaminants (including heavy metals and solvents)

• 🏷️ Requires accurate labeling of THC content, cannabinoid profiles, batch numbers, and disclaimers

• 🧾 Creates a licensing system for hemp product manufacturers and retailers

• 🚫 Restricts sales to individuals 21 and over and bans products that appeal to children (e.g., gummy bears shaped like candy)

You can read the latest version of the bill on the Texas Legislature Online.

💼 What This Means for Texas Businesses

SB 3 is seen by many as a win for legitimate hemp businesses who’ve operated in legal gray areas for years. With a clear legal framework, business owners can now:

• Operate confidently without fear of sudden enforcement actions

• Access better banking, insurance, and retail partnerships

• Build consumer trust with tested and traceable products

However, the bill also introduces stricter compliance requirements — including lab testing fees, age-verification systems, and ongoing audits from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

🔍 Why Delta-8 and Hemp Reform Matter in Texas

Texas has historically resisted cannabis legalization, but the 2018 Farm Bill opened the door for hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. Since then, delta-8 has exploded in popularity for its mild psychoactive effects — landing it in legal limbo.

SB 3 clarifies that delta-8 and other cannabinoids are legal, provided they meet testing standards and are derived from federally legal hemp.

This move reflects changing public opinion and a growing demand for alternative wellness products — without jumping fully into marijuana legalization.

🧑⚖️ Industry Reactions and What Comes Next

Industry groups like the Texas Hemp Coalition have largely praised SB 3 for creating stability in a chaotic marketplace.

Opponents, including some lawmakers and conservative parent groups, have raised concerns about underage use and insufficient enforcement, especially for products sold in gas stations or online.

But the momentum is clear: Texans want safe access to cannabinoid products, and SB 3 offers a legislative path forward.

📌 Who Can Sell and Buy Under SB 3?

SB 3 makes it legal for:

• Licensed businesses to manufacture, distribute, and sell hemp consumables

• Retailers and dispensaries (in compliance with the law) to offer products with psychoactive effects

• Adults 21+ to purchase and consume these products

Online sales will require robust age-verification systems, and delivery services must verify ID at the point of sale or drop-off.

✅ Next Steps for Consumers and Entrepreneurs

If you’re a consumer, look for:

• Products labeled with lab results (COAs)

• Packaging that includes THC content and ingredient lists

• Retailers who check ID and source from licensed producers

If you’re a business, you should:

• Begin the licensing process through the Texas DSHS

• Establish partnerships with certified labs

• Ensure products meet packaging and age-restriction requirements

📣 Final Thoughts

Texas Senate Bill 3 is a landmark moment for hemp in the state. It brings much-needed regulation to an exploding market, protects consumers from unsafe products, and legitimizes entrepreneurs in the space.

While Texas hasn’t legalized marijuana, the future for hemp-derived THC is clearer and more promising than ever.