James Talarico Says Texas’ THC Ban Will Push Consumers Away from Licensed Businesses and Toward Illegal Sellers
Texas state Rep. and Democratic U.S. Senate nominee James Talarico is condemning the state’s newly enforced ban on most hemp-derived THC products, arguing that it will drive consumers away from licensed businesses and into the illegal drug market.
The ban took effect July 31 after the Texas Supreme Court upheld the state’s authority to classify delta-8 and other THC variants as controlled substances. Products containing delta-8, delta-10, THCP and many forms of THCA are now prohibited, while hemp products containing no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight remain legal.
Talarico Warns of Black-Market Sales
“This ban is a gift to the cartels,” Talarico said in an official statement.
Talarico noted that the Texas Legislature legalized hemp seven years ago but chose to prohibit most THC variants instead of regulating what has become a booming industry. He argued that the ban will not stop Texans from smoking marijuana or consuming edibles.
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“Texans will still use THC — but instead of getting it safely from a local small business, they’ll go back to getting it from the black market. From the drug cartels,” Talarico said
Regulation Instead of Prohibition
Talarico said Texas should regulate the industry to protect minors and consumers instead of broadly prohibiting the products.
“Yes, we should keep these products out of the hands of minors. Yes, we should end deceptive marketing practices. Yes, we should keep smoke shops away from schools. But this draconian ban doesn’t do any of that.
“This is the nanny state at its worst. This is big government at its worst.”
Talarico also cited President Donald Trump’s position on marijuana enforcement.
“As President Trump said: ‘It is time to end needless arrests and incarcerations of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use. We must also implement smart regulations, while providing access for adults to safe, tested products.’”
Talarico Calls on Republicans to Reverse Ban
“I’m asking Texas Republicans to oppose the cartels, stand with President Trump, and reverse this crazy ban,” Talarico said.
Read Next: Texas THC Ban Takes Effect: What Is Legal, What Is Banned and What Texans Need to Know
