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The fight for sensible hemp policy in Texas continues.
The Texas House Public Health Committee will hear House Bill 5 — a duplicate of Sen. Perry’s wildly unpopular THC ban — on Wednesday, August 13, at 9:00 a.m. While it’s unlikely that the House will have a quorum in time to actually pass the bill, this hearing is a VERY important opportunity for opponents of prohibition to take a stand for responsible regulations.
TAKE ACTION: Submit public comments online to share your opposition to HB 5 as written! (Thoughtful comments delivered respectfully will make the most impact.)
HB 5 is a sweeping proposal that would ban nearly all hemp-derived cannabinoids, limiting the market to just CBD and CBG, and impose harsh criminal penalties for products that are currently federally legal and widely used by Texans. Find a full overview of the bill here.
Governor Abbott vetoed similar legislation earlier this year, calling instead for a regulatory approach that protects public health without banning legal hemp products. Public Health Committee members now have the chance to follow that directive by overhauling HB 5.
Opportunities for Advocacy
- Show Up at the Capitol
Come to Austin on hearing day to register your opposition to HB 5. You don’t need to testify to make an impact — signing up in opposition sends a powerful message.
- Submit Written Testimony
If you have valuable insight or personal experience, prepare your written testimony now. You can:
- Submit it in person at the Capitol (recommended). Bring 20 printed copies for committee members, and keep your testimony clear, personal, and respectful; or
- Submit it online through the Public Health Committee’s portal.
- Deliver Oral Testimony
If you speak in person, you’ll have 2 minutes — focus on your strongest points.
Dress professionally, avoid repeating others’ testimony, and remain respectful.
- Contact Your State Representative
Ask them to support evidence-based regulation instead of prohibition.
Texans agree — a recent poll found 79% support keeping hemp-derived THC products legal with added safety regulations.
This is about freedom, public safety, and economic opportunity. Prohibition will not make Texans safer — it will lead to more arrests, more criminal records, and a booming illicit market with no oversight.
Attend the hearing in person Wednesday, August 13, at 9:00 a.m. or watch the livestream here.