Texas House Bill HB256

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

• Filed: 8/4/25

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the sale, delivery, or purchase of a consumable hemp product to or by a person younger than 21 years of age, the entry onto the premises of a retailer of consumable hemp products by a person younger than 21 years of age, and the employment by a retailer of consumable hemp products of a person younger than 21 years of age; creating criminal offenses.

Impact

The bill's implementation would amend the Health and Safety Code to define minors as anyone younger than 21 years old and set forth penalties for both the sale of hemp products to these individuals and for the minors themselves attempting to purchase such products. It also allows for the suspension of driver's licenses for minors found guilty of these offenses, emphasizing a preventative approach to deter underage consumption. Retailers will be obligated to ensure compliance, impacting how they manage and verify the age of their customers.

Summary

House Bill 256 aims to establish strict regulations regarding the sale, delivery, and purchase of consumable hemp products, specifically prohibiting these activities for individuals younger than 21 years of age. The bill introduces several criminal offenses related to the sale of hemp products to minors, which would be classified as Class A misdemeanors for retailers and employees who fail to comply with the age verification requirements. Additionally, it addresses the presence of minors on the premises of retailers selling consumable hemp products, barring entry for those under 21.

Contention

Notably, the bill could provoke discussions around personal freedoms and the accessibility of hemp products, similar to previous debates related to alcohol and tobacco regulations. Concerns may arise regarding the enforcement of age verification measures and the potential for unintended consequences, such as increased legal troubles for minors who may inadvertently commit offenses related to the purchase of hemp products. While proponents argue that such regulations are necessary for public health and safety, opponents may view them as excessive and detrimental to the accessibility of legal alternatives to other substances.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 443. Manufacture, Distribution, And Sale Of Consumable Hemp Products
  • Section: New Section