Bill > SB1870

This bill establishes new provisions for municipal and county enforcement of drug and consumable hemp product laws in Texas, creating a framework that prevents local entities (which include municipal governments, county commissions, law enforcement agencies, and prosecutors) from adopting policies that would limit the full enforcement of state drug and hemp product laws. The bill requires local entities to fully enforce state laws related to drugs and hemp products, specifically referencing Chapters 443, 481, and 483 of the Health and Safety Code, and prohibits these entities from placing ballot measures that would attempt to reduce enforcement. The legislation empowers citizens to file complaints with the Attorney General if they believe a local entity is not fully enforcing these laws, and allows the Attorney General to seek equitable relief through court action. Furthermore, the bill establishes significant civil penalties for violations, with fines starting at $25,000 for a first offense and increasing to $50,000 for subsequent violations, and each day of continued violation considered a separate infraction. The bill also waives governmental immunity for local entities in these cases, ensuring they can be held accountable for non-compliance. The legislation will take effect either immediately with a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1870