TABC Moves Quickly to Enforce Governor's Executive Order

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The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) has adopted two emergency rules to implement Governor Greg Abbott’s recent executive order protecting children from hemp-derived THC products.

At its September 23 meeting, TABC approved:

• §51.1 – Prohibited Sales to Minors: Bars, restaurants, and other TABC-licensed businesses may not sell consumable hemp products (CHPs) to anyone under 21. A violation results in automatic license or permit cancellation, with no option for warnings, suspensions, or fines. An exception applies if a minor presents a valid-looking government ID and the business checks it carefully.
• §51.2 – Mandatory Age Verification: All sales of consumable hemp products require verification with government-issued photo identification, regardless of the customer’s apparent age. Failure to check ID results in automatic cancellation of the business’s license or permit.

These rules took effect immediately on September 23, 2025, but TABC will begin enforcement on October 1, 2025. As emergency measures, they may remain in effect for up to 180 days. Learn more.

Governor Greg Abbott today issued an executive order, directing the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to take immediate action to protect Texas children from hemp-derived products, while respecting federal law and protecting the liberties of responsible adults.

The order comes after the Texas Legislature did not pass a ban on the sale of hemp products to customers under the age of 21.

“Texas will not wait when it comes to protecting children and families,” said Governor Abbott. “While these products would still benefit from the kind of comprehensive regulation set by the Texas Legislature for substances like alcohol and tobacco, my executive order makes sure that kids are kept safe and parents have peace of mind now, and that consumers know the products they purchase are tested and labeled responsibly.” Learn more.

Heather Fazio is a dedicated cannabis advocate with a strong track record of advancing reform efforts in Texas. With a passion for individual liberty and responsible policy, she has worked extensively to educate lawmakers, mobilize grassroots support, and collaborate with coalition partners to drive meaningful change.

Heather has played a key role in organizing training events, legislative briefings, lobby days, and educational exhibits, equipping advocates with the tools they need to engage effectively in the policymaking process. Her leadership in building strategic alliances has helped elevate the conversation around cannabis policy, ensuring that patient rights, personal freedoms, and responsible regulations remain at the forefront of legislative discussions.

Through her years of advocacy, Heather has become a trusted voice in Texas cannabis policy, bridging the gap between the public, lawmakers, and industry stakeholders to foster informed decision-making and meaningful reform.