Bill > HB2818

This bill amends the Agriculture Code to make several changes related to the production and regulation of hemp in Texas. The key provisions include: 1) Defining "hemp" as an agricultural commodity, 2) Requiring the Department of Agriculture to submit amendments to the state hemp plan within 120 days of changes to relevant federal or state laws, 3) Establishing a hemp research permit for institutions of higher education, private/independent institutions, and nonprofit research entities, which provides exemptions from certain requirements for license holders, 4) Requiring the Department to propose rule changes within 90 days of changes to state or federal hemp laws, 5) Authorizing the Department to adopt alternative shipping requirements for hemp sample shipments, 6) Establishing new standards for hemp harvest and testing when a license is suspended or revoked, 7) Allowing the importation of certified hemp seeds and plants from other states, 8) Establishing an administrative penalty and criminal offenses for cultivating hemp without a license.