TX
Texas House Bill HB447

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB447

Caption

Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, sale, testing, possession, and use of cannabis and cannabis products; authorizing the imposition of taxes and fees; requiring an occupational license; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

The bill imposes a 10% tax on sales of cannabis and cannabis products, with revenues allocated to various funds including those dedicated to public school teachers and cannabis regulation. By establishing these taxes, the bill aims to create a new revenue stream for the state while addressing the educational funding needs within Texas. Furthermore, it allows for local municipalities to receive financial support based on the number of cannabis establishments present, promoting local economic growth. Importantly, the law prohibits local governments from enacting regulations that would unduly restrict cannabis operations, thus centralizing authority at the state level and potentially reducing local control over cannabis-related decisions.

Summary

House Bill 447, titled the Texas Regulation and Taxation of Cannabis Act, establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, sale, testing, possession, and use of cannabis and cannabis products within the state of Texas. The bill provides definitions and provisions regarding cannabis, detailing what constitutes cannabis products and establishing operations for various cannabis-related entities. Additionally, the act includes safety and quality control measures, as well as occupational licensing requirements for cannabis establishments and growers, marking a significant reform in how cannabis is treated under state law.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 447 include concerns raised by various stakeholders regarding public health and safety, especially concerning the distribution of cannabis products to minors and the implications of personal use specified in the bill. The act strictly prohibits the sale or distribution of cannabis to individuals under 21 years of age, establishing clear legal penalties for violations. Opponents of the bill have expressed concerns that by minimizing local regulatory power, the state may overlook community-specific issues related to health, safety, and crime prevention associated with cannabis use, thereby creating challenges in enforcement and public perception.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX SB1581

Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, sale, testing, possession, and use of cannabis and cannabis products; authorizing the imposition of taxes and fees; requiring an occupational license; creating a criminal offense.

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Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, processing, distribution, sale, testing, transportation, delivery, transfer, possession, use, and taxation of cannabis and cannabis products and local regulation of cannabis establishments; authorizing the imposition of fees; requiring an occupational license or registration; creating a criminal offense; imposing a tax.