Texas Bars Sale of Consumable THC Products to Under-21s at Licensed Establishments

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) enacted emergency regulations on September 23 to bar the sale of consumable hemp-derived THC products to individuals under 21. Effective October 1, vendors must conduct thorough ID checks to verify buyers' ages, with violations potentially leading to license revocation under Rule 51. 1. TABC Director Thomas Graham underscored the agency's commitment to community welfare in this initiative. These regulations stem from Governor Greg Abbott's Executive Order 6, which mandates tighter controls on THC sales.

Approximately 60,000 TABC-licensed businesses, including bars and grocery stores, must comply with these new rules, while non-TABC sellers will not be affected. Communications Director Chris Porter noted that discussions are ongoing with the Department of State Health Services to unify age restrictions across all retailers. Advocates for youth safety support the age limit, but some express concerns about the ongoing sales of THC products in unregulated markets. The TABC plans to engage stakeholders on October 9 and propose permanent regulations by November 18.