Texas Ag Commissioner Miller Assures Hemp Farmers
May 25, 2025 – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is addressing growing concerns from farmers about the potential impact of Senate Bill 3 on the state’s hemp industry. While the legislation aims to regulate certain aspects of hemp-derived products, Miller clarified that it does not ban the cultivation of hemp or its use for biomass production. Instead, the bill is a focused attempt to restrict abuse of THC products in the retail sector, particularly concerning unregulated intoxicating hemp products like Delta-8 and Delta-9 edibles.
The Texas House gave final approval Thursday to a bill that would ban all products containing tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, likely spelling the end for the state’s short-lived hemp industry.
Miller emphasized that the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has worked closely with lawmakers to ensure the bill protects farmers’ interests. He also noted his ongoing conversations with Lt. Governor Dan Patrick to safeguard the rights of legitimate producers.
“Texas farmers are worried about the effects of Senate Bill 3 on the hemp industry,” said Commissioner Miller. “But this legislation does not ban growing hemp or planting hemp for biomass. It’s a targeted effort to crack down on abuse of THC in the retail sector, not a ban on legitimate hemp farming.”
The Texas Hemp Business Council, a strong supporter of all aspects of hemp and hemp derived products, published a survey that suggests most Texans want THC edibles to remain lawfully available.
“We have maintained constant communication with the Legislature to ensure the voices of our growers are heard and that essential protection for Texas producers stays in place,” Miller said. “I am committed to ensuring our farmers can continue to grow hemp without unnecessary interference.”
The hemp industry in Texas has grown steadily since legalization in 2019, providing farmers with an alternative crop and economic opportunity. Senate Bill 3, while controversial in retail circles, is not intended to undermine this progress. Miller’s reassurances seek to calm uncertainty among growers and maintain the state’s support for agricultural innovation while addressing public health and safety concerns associated with unregulated THC products.
