Texas Hemp Veto Sparks Cannabis Policy Debate
While Shadd is still out, Anthony Varrell sits down with Michael Bronstein, President of ATACH, and Nick Mortillaro, Executive Director of HILT, to unpack two major hemp and cannabis developments from Texas. The news: Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed Senate Bill 3 (SB3), which sought to ban THC hemp products. Instead, Abbott signaled support for a regulated cannabis framework—sparking a heated political divide with Lt. Governor Dan Patrick.
Nick Mortillaro, Executive Director of the Hemp Industry Leaders of Texas (HILT), joined to discuss the implications. A chemical engineer turned Texas hemp operator, Mortillaro celebrated the veto as a turning point. “There’s a clear public mandate,” he said, noting that a special session in July could revive House Bill 28, which proposes regulating 10mg THC products while banning harmful synthetics like THCP.
Mortillaro clarified industry standards, countering misconceptions about “gas station weed.” He noted that responsible Texas operators are pushing for full panel lab testing, age gating, and child-safe packaging. The expansion of the state’s Teacup medical program was welcomed but deemed insufficient; many Texans still rely on the hemp market for accessible therapeutic cannabis.
The second half featured Michael Bronstein of the American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp, who explored broader legislative dynamics. In Pennsylvania, cannabis legalization could hinge on budget negotiations and upcoming committee hearings. Bronstein highlighted growing calls for a unified regulatory board overseeing all THC products, from hemp to medical marijuana.
On the federal side, Bronstein flagged an imminent appropriations markup that may influence Farm Bill definitions and reshape national cannabis oversight. While some speculate Abbott’s veto anticipated these developments, Bronstein suggested it was a calculated political move rather than a legal strategy.
Looking ahead, both guests agreed Texas could set a national precedent—if lawmakers overcome Lt. Governor Patrick’s resistance and embrace sensible, industry-backed regulation.
