What Hemp Businesses and Consumers Need to Know
On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the Texas Senate Health and Human Services Committee will hold a public hearing to receive invited testimony on several interim charges assigned by the Texas Senate. Among the topics is one that could significantly shape the future of hemp-derived THC products in Texas.
While members of the public will not be allowed to testify in person, Texans still have an opportunity to make their voices heard by submitting written testimony to the committee.
What Are Interim Charges?
Between legislative sessions, the Texas Legislature assigns “interim charges” to committees to study specific issues. These charges direct committees to gather information, hear testimony from invited experts and stakeholders, and develop recommendations before lawmakers return to Austin in 2027.
The findings and recommendations produced during the interim often become the foundation for legislation introduced during the next legislative session.
In other words, this hearing represents one of the earliest stages in shaping potential hemp policy for 2027.
The THC Interim Charge
The committee will hear invited testimony on the following charge:
Addressing Societal Impacts of THC Product Consumption: Study the impact of THC on increased health care costs, mental health emergency detentions, and the risk of being diagnosed with a THC-induced psychotic disorder. Make recommendations to decrease health care and criminal justice costs.
The charge directs the committee to examine potential public health and public safety concerns associated with THC consumption and to develop legislative recommendations based on those findings.
Because the charge focuses specifically on potential harms associated with THC, many stakeholders expect testimony to emphasize concerns regarding mental health, healthcare utilization, emergency detentions, and criminal justice impacts.
The recommendations resulting from this interim process could ultimately influence legislation considered during the 2027 Texas Legislative Session.
Why This Matters
The hemp industry supports thoughtful, science-based regulation that protects consumers while preserving legal access to hemp products.
As lawmakers evaluate the future of hemp-derived cannabinoids, it is critical that they also hear from businesses, medical professionals, veterans, patients, consumers, farmers, and others whose experiences reflect the broader reality of Texas’ hemp industry.
Balanced policymaking requires considering both the potential risks and the documented benefits, economic impact, and responsible use of legal hemp products.
Public Testimony Is By Invitation Only
The July 7 hearing is invited testimony only, meaning members of the public will not have the opportunity to testify before the committee.
However, the committee will accept written testimony, giving Texans an opportunity to share information, research, and personal experiences for the official record.
Showing up: THBC encourages hemp industry advocates to show up to the hearing on July, 7 2026. It is important to dress professionally.
What Should Your Letter Include?
If you choose to submit written testimony, consider addressing topics such as:
- Your personal or professional experience with legal hemp products.
- The importance of responsible regulation instead of prohibition.
- Scientific research or evidence relevant to THC and public health.
- The economic impact of Texas’ hemp industry, including jobs and small businesses.
- Why policymakers should consider both potential risks and documented benefits when developing future legislation.
The goal is to provide committee members with additional perspectives as they evaluate the issues raised in the interim charge.
How to Submit Written Testimony
To ensure your testimony arrives before the hearing, it should be mailed no later than July 1. It must arrive by the hearing date to be entered into record.
If mailing through USPS:
Senate Committee on Health and Human Services
Attn: Chair Lois Kolkhorst / Clerk Sally Buck
Sam Houston Building, Room 420
P.O. Box 12866
Austin, Texas 78711
If sending through FedEx, UPS, or DHL:
Senate Committee on Health and Human Services
Attn: Chair Lois Kolkhorst / Clerk Sally Buck
Sam Houston Building, Room 420
201 E. 14th Street
Austin, Texas 78701
Private courier services cannot deliver to the committee’s P.O. Box.
If you would like to verify that your testimony was received, you may contact the committee clerk’s office at (512) 463-0360.
Every Voice Matters
The decisions made during the interim process will help shape the legislative conversation heading into 2027.
If you believe Texas should pursue evidence-based hemp policy that protects consumers while preserving access to legal hemp products, now is the time to engage.
Even if you cannot attend the hearing, your written testimony can help ensure the committee hears perspectives from the businesses, consumers, patients, veterans, farmers, and Texans who are directly impacted by the decisions being made.
