The USDA approved Texas’ plan to regulate hemp. Before licenses can be issued, though, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) must adopt rules for the regulation of hemp cultivation and manufacturing. Recently, TDA hosted a hearing in Waco to accept public comment relating to their proposed rules.
Contact TDA to offer comment on proposed rules via email: RuleComments@TexasAgriculture.gov
Separately, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is charged with regulating retail sales of consumable hemp products. Proposed rules have been published and are mostly good, aiming to protect consumers but overstep in restricting sale of “smokable” hemp product. DSHS is expected to publish a revised draft of the rules in February, giving time for more feedback before finalizing in March.
Contact DSHS to offer feedback on proposed rules via email DSHSHempProgram@dshs.texas.gov