Texas is banning Delta-8 and several other hemp-derived THC products, forcing an Odessa smoke shop to pull inventory before the new rule takes effect.
ODESSA, Texas — Texas smoke and vape shops are removing Delta-8 THC and other hemp-derived THC products from their shelves ahead of a state ban that takes effect on Friday, July 31.
The Texas Department of State Health Services, or DSHS, is reclassifying Delta-8 THC and several other hemp-derived THC substances, including Delta-10 and THCP, as controlled substances following a Texas Supreme Court decision that allows reinforcement of a 2021 state law. Businesses have been directed to remove or sell affected inventory by July 31.
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At High Society, manager Madison Stout said the change will significantly reduce the store’s inventory.
“It’s actually affecting us pretty harshly,” Stout said. “We’re basically pulling off everything else that we have left … It’s gonna leave our shelves pretty dry. The regulations are so strict right now there’s really not much else that we can get.”
Stout said the ban will also affect customers who use hemp-derived THC products as an alternative to prescription medications.
“I have patients that come in here that go to the doctor for prescription meds and they’re tired of being on 10 different prescription meds,” Stout said. “They’d rather smoke some weed or take some gummies. I think the state is not remembering that. This hurts small business owners, but they’re hurting the customers more.”
Texas law continues to prohibit recreational marijuana, though low-THC medical cannabis remains available through the state’s Compassionate Use Program.
The Texas Hemp Business Council said the new rule does not affect hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products, including certain edibles and beverages that comply with state and federal THC limits.