Governor Abbott’s SB3 Veto Proclamation Explained

Governor Abbott’s SB 3 Veto Proclamation — Line-by-Line Breakdown

You can read the full proclamation here:
Gov. Abbott’s SB 3 Veto Proclamation (PDF)

Opening Statement

“To the Senate of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session:
Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 3…”

What it means:
Governor Abbott is formally vetoing SB 3 using his constitutional authority. The veto prevents the bill from becoming law, meaning there will be no immediate ban on hemp-derived THC products in Texas.

Concerns About a Blanket Ban

“Banning hemp-derived products that contain trace amounts of THC would shutter hundreds of Texas small businesses and kill thousands of jobs.”

What it means:
Abbott acknowledges that SB 3 would have had significant economic consequences, particularly for small businesses, farmers, and the state’s emerging hemp industry. He’s concerned about unintended harm from a full ban.

Preference for Regulation Over Prohibition

“Texas should not risk turning law-abiding farmers and small business owners into criminals.”

What it means:
Rather than outlaw THC products, Abbott supports creating smart, enforceable regulations that preserve the industry while addressing safety concerns.

Call for a Special Session

“This veto does not mark the end of this matter. On July 21, 2025, I will convene a special session… to develop a regulatory framework for hemp-derived products.”

What it means:
Abbott will bring lawmakers back to Austin for a special legislative session beginning July 21, limited to THC regulation. The goal: draft a balanced law that protects public safety and business rights.

Proposed Regulation Areas

“…minimum age limits, packaging and labeling standards, limits on the marketing of such products to children, and other appropriate regulatory safeguards.”

What it means:
New rules could include:

• Minimum age of 21+ for purchase

• Child-resistant packaging

• Marketing restrictions

• Labeling and dosage rules

• Local government control

• Possibly licensing and taxation systems

These are more nuanced than an outright ban and aim to address health and safety concerns without destroying the hemp economy.

How Texans Can Take Action

This special session is a critical opportunity for your voice to shape the future of THC laws in Texas. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Contact Your Lawmakers

• Find your Texas House Representative and State Senator here:
  🔗 https://wrm.capitol.texas.gov/home

• Call, email, or write letters to:

  • Share how hemp products benefit you, your family, or your business

  • Urge them to support fair and sensible regulation, not a ban

  • Ask them to support protections for small businesses, veterans, patients, and farmers

2. Use a Sample Message

Here’s an example you can adapt for calls or emails:

“Hi, my name is [Your Name] and I live in [City/ZIP].
I’m reaching out to ask [Rep./Senator Name] to support sensible regulation of hemp-derived THC products during the upcoming special session.
A full ban, like what SB 3 proposed, would hurt small businesses, patients, and veterans.
Please support legislation that includes age limits, packaging rules, and consumer safety without destroying the hemp industry.”

3. Stay Engaged During the Special Session

• Follow live updates and bill proposals during the session (July 21–Aug 20)

• Share alerts and updates from hemp advocacy organizations

• Submit written testimony if public comment is open

• Rally local support on social media and at community events

Final Takeaway

Gov. Abbott’s veto of SB 3 is a win for now, but the real decisions will be made during the special session starting July 21. Texans have the power to influence what comes next through organized outreach, community advocacy, and staying informed.

Here’s a downloadable action kit (PDF) you can use to advocate for safe, fair, and effective THC regulations in Texas.