Abbott’s New TABC Hemp Rules: What Texas Edible Brands Need to Know

Governor Greg Abbott recently signed Executive Order GA-56, triggering emergency rules from TABC and DSHS that ban sales of consumable hemp products to under-21 and require age verification. For hemp and edible brands in Houston, Austin, Dallas, and across Texas, now is the time to adjust compliance, marketing, and product strategy.

What Is Executive Order GA-56?

On September 10, 2025, Greg Abbott issued Executive Order GA-56, directing TABC, DSHS, and DPS to regulate consumable hemp products. The goal: restrict access by minors while allowing compliant adult sales.

Emergency TABC Rules & Their Impact

On September 23, 2025, TABC adopted two emergency rules under its new authority:

• Rule §51.1: Prohibits TABC-licensed businesses from selling hemp consumables to anyone under 21.
• Rule §51.2: Requires age verification (government-issued photo ID) at the point of sale.

These rules went into effect immediately, with enforcement beginning October 1, 2025. Violations can lead to automatic license cancellation.

DPS Enforcement & Expanded Oversight

Abbott also instructed DPS to enforce the new age restrictions and to coordinate with local law enforcement. DPS troopers have been tasked with inspections and undercover operations targeting noncompliant retailers.

How This Affects Hemp & Edibles Businesses

• Ensure age gating is in place online and in-store (21+ only).
• Update POS systems to require ID verification before processing sales.
• Review product labels and marketing to avoid appealing to minors.
• Audit your license types—only TABC-licensed sellers are affected by the rules.
• Stay alert for the permanent rulemaking process—these emergency rules will be revisited.

Why Abbott Vetoed a Complete THC Ban

Earlier in 2025, the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 3, which would have banned nearly all intoxicating hemp products. Abbott vetoed it on June 22, 2025, favoring regulation over a total prohibition. The veto preserved legal access but put heavy emphasis on controlled oversight.

Next Steps for Hemp Brands

1. Update your website and checkout process to block minors (age verification).
2. Train staff in-store to check ID before sale.
3. Revise marketing materials to remove youth appeals.
4. Monitor proposed permanent rules from TABC/DSHS and comment during rulemaking.
5. Ensure all labels, COAs, and batch data are up-to-date and easily accessible.

How CMC Organic Helps Navigate This Transition

At CMC Organic, we’re deeply familiar with Texas hemp marketing, compliance logistics, and SEO. We help brands adapt fast—whether it’s updating site code, reworking product pages, or rethinking how you present THC edibles online without violating age restrictions.

Written by CMC Organic — your Texas hemp marketing and compliance partner.