Texas House Bill 28: A Power Grab Disguised as Regulation?

In recent weeks, many online discussions have framed Texas House Bill 28 (HB28) as the bill that will “save hemp” while implementing “reasonable regulations.” However, this could not be further from the truth. Like Senate Bill 3 (SB3), HB28 threatens to dismantle the entire hemp industry in Texas, with one notable exception: it benefits Specs and the Texas liquor industry by granting them exclusive control over THC beverages.

The True Impact of HB28 on Texas’ Hemp Industry

If HB28 passes, nearly all hemp-derived products—including edibles and flower—will be made illegal. This would effectively eliminate many small businesses and independent operators who have built their livelihoods in the industry. Instead, the bill provides a carve-out that allows large liquor retailers, such as Specs, to maintain their grip on the THC beverage market through Texas’ three-tier alcohol distribution system.

Big Alcohol’s Plan to Dominate Cannabis

The influence of Big Alcohol in this legislation cannot be ignored. Steve Jabour, president of Specs, reportedly stated, “Cannabis is the future, and I’m going hard into the category.” Specs, the largest alcohol retailer in Texas, has historically wielded significant influence over the state’s alcohol laws and now appears to be leveraging its power to monopolize the cannabis market. A recent report highlights how alcohol sales have been declining across the U.S., as consumers increasingly opt for healthier, natural alternatives like cannabis.

Hemp-derived THC beverages have emerged as one of the fastest-growing categories in the cannabis space. Recognizing this trend, Specs and other major players in the alcohol industry are pushing for regulations that eliminate competition while securing their control over this lucrative market.

Public Safety or Corporate Monopoly?

Supporters of HB28 claim it is designed to promote public health and safety by regulating the hemp industry. However, if that were truly the goal, the bill would focus on eliminating bad actors while protecting legitimate businesses. Instead, it appears aimed at shutting down independent hemp companies entirely, thereby restricting access to products many Texans rely on for therapeutic benefits.

Cannabis advocates argue that reasonable regulations could be implemented to address concerns without destroying the industry. A study by NORML found that hemp-derived products, when properly regulated, pose minimal risk to public health compared to alcohol.

What’s Next for Texas Hemp?

HB28 and SB3 are not about safety—they are about control. This legislation is another example of how powerful interests shape policy to benefit themselves at the expense of small businesses and consumers.

Fortunately, a new bill is expected to be introduced soon that could provide a fair and balanced approach to hemp regulation. Texans who care about the future of cannabis in the state should stay informed and prepared to advocate for legislation that supports both business owners and consumers.

For further updates, keep an eye on Texans for Responsible Cannabis Policy and other advocacy groups fighting for fair cannabis laws in Texas.