Texas lawmakers: Cannabis is here to stay. And we will regulate the market in 2027.

OG article by Stephen Simpson and Alejandro Serrano

February 2, 2026

Texas lawmakers declared cannabis and THC products permanent in the state, shifting from a failed consumable hemp ban to regulation planning for 2027. At the Texas Cannabis Policy Conference, Sen. Nathan Johnson (D-Dallas) and Rep. Drew Darby (R-San Angelo) noted strong public opposition to prohibition. Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed the ban, tasking TABC and DSHS with rules like under-21 sales bans. Proposals face criticism for high fees, marketing limits, and potential small-business closures by redefining hemp or restricting interstate commerce. Agencies lack full oversight of retailers. Industry advocates push balanced safety rules without overreach, eyeing expanded medical access. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick may retry bans, but House resistance looms amid regulatory gaps from legislative inaction.