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HB 256

Relating to prohibiting the sale, delivery, or purchase of a consumable hemp product to or by a person younger than 21 years of age, the entry onto the premises of a retailer of consumable hemp products by a person younger than 21 years of age, and the employment by a retailer of consumable hemp products of a person younger than 21 years of age; creating criminal offenses.

89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025) Introduced by Charlie Geren

HB 256 prohibits sales of consumable hemp products to minors under 21, restricts their retail premises access, and bans their employment at hemp retailers, creating criminal penalties for violations.

Filed
#crimes--drugs(i0185) #hemp(s0907) #minors--health&safety(i0533)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 256

Legislative bill overview

HB 256 establishes age restrictions on hemp product consumption in Texas, prohibiting sale, delivery, or purchase of consumable hemp products to anyone under 21. The bill also restricts entry into hemp retail establishments for minors and prevents retailers from employing workers under 21, with violations treated as criminal offenses.

Why is this important

Hemp-derived products (including delta-8 and delta-10 THC) have proliferated in Texas retail markets with minimal age restrictions, creating legal gray areas around youth access to psychoactive substances. This bill addresses concerns about minor consumption of unregulated hemp products that can produce cannabis-like effects, while imposing operational requirements on the growing hemp retail industry.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional ambiguity: "Consumable hemp product" lacks clear definition in the summary; whether this covers all hemp-derived cannabinoids or only specific compounds could significantly affect compliance and enforcement
  • Employment restrictions: Barring anyone under 21 from hemp retail work is broader than tobacco/alcohol policies and may eliminate job opportunities for teens in a growing industry sector
  • Enforcement challenges: Distinguishing legal hemp products from illegal cannabis and determining retailer liability for minor entry without explicit language on store security requirements or penalties

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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