Bill > HB1113

This bill makes several important changes to Texas's hemp production and regulation laws. It introduces a new Hemp Research Permit that allows institutions of higher education, private research institutions, and nonprofit research entities to conduct hemp research with more flexibility, including the ability to cultivate hemp varieties not previously certified, collect and research feral hemp, and conduct research in conjunction with licensed facilities. The bill expands definitions related to hemp, requires the state agriculture department to quickly update state plans when federal hemp regulations change, and establishes new rules for testing hemp samples, including specific requirements for laboratory reporting of cannabinoid concentrations. Additionally, the bill creates administrative and criminal penalties for cultivating hemp without a license, with escalating consequences for repeat offenders: first-time violators may receive a warning or $500 fine, while subsequent violations can result in misdemeanor charges ranging from Class C to Class A, depending on the number of prior offenses. The bill also provides guidelines for transporting and cultivating hemp seedlings and immature plants, and clarifies that a license holder can only be cited for one negligent cultivation violation per calendar year. The new regulations are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1113