The Texas hemp industry is changing.
New regulations adopted by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) will significantly impact how hemp-derived THC products are regulated across Texas. These changes are expected to take effect at the end of March 2026 and will affect both consumers and hemp retailers.
If you’re wondering “Is THCA still legal in Texas?” or what these changes mean for cannabis products in Austin, here’s what you need to know.
Why Texas Hemp Laws Are Changing
Texas originally legalized hemp in 2019, allowing products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. This opened the door for a wide range of hemp-derived cannabis products, including THCA flower, edibles, beverages, and tinctures.
However, new rules now change how THC is calculated.
Under the updated regulations, THCA must be included in the total THC calculation when testing hemp products.
Because THCA converts into Delta-9 THC when heated, this change dramatically affects the legality of many hemp products that were previously considered compliant.
Is THCA Flower Legal in Texas?
Under the new Texas hemp rules, THCA flower is expected to become illegal for retail sale in Texas once the regulations take effect.
Most THCA flower products naturally exceed the legal limit when total THC is calculated. As a result, many hemp retailers across Texas will no longer be able to sell THCA flower or certain smokable concentrates.
For consumers in cities like Austin, Texas, this means the availability of cannabis flower products may change significantly.
When Do the New Texas Hemp Rules Take Effect?
The new regulations are expected to roll out at the end of March 2026.
Key timeline:
- Early March 2026 — New hemp rules officially adopted
- Late March 2026 — Final days for many THCA flower products
- March 31, 2026 — Updated regulations expected to take effect
After this date, retailers must comply with the new THC testing requirements.
What Hemp Products Are Still Legal in Texas?
While THCA flower may disappear from shelves, many hemp-derived THC products are expected to remain legal in Texas as long as they meet federal hemp limits.
These products often include:
These products are typically formulated to stay within the federal limit of 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight, allowing them to remain compliant under hemp laws.
Increased Regulation for Texas Hemp Businesses
The updated rules also bring stricter oversight to hemp businesses across Texas.
Retailers and manufacturers may face additional compliance requirements involving:
- product testing
- labeling standards
- licensing requirements
- record keeping
These updates aim to create a clearer regulatory framework for the hemp industry.
What This Means for Cannabis Consumers in Austin, Texas
For cannabis consumers in Austin and across Texas, the biggest change will likely be the removal of THCA flower and certain smokable products.
However, hemp-derived THC products are not disappearing entirely. Many formats — especially edibles, beverages, and tinctures — are expected to remain available.
The Texas cannabis market is evolving, and many businesses are adapting their product offerings to comply with the new rules.
Cannabis Education at MARYJAE®
At MARYJAE® in Austin, Texas, education has always been part of the experience.
As laws change, our goal is to help our community understand what’s happening in the Texas cannabis landscape while continuing to offer compliant hemp-derived products in a welcoming space.
We’ll continue sharing updates as more guidance becomes available.
FAQ: Texas Hemp Law Changes
Is THCA legal in Texas in 2026?
Under new regulations, THCA must be counted toward total THC levels. Because of this change, most THCA flower products are expected to exceed legal limits and will likely no longer be sold in Texas.
Are THC gummies still legal in Texas?
Many hemp-derived THC gummies may remain legal as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight.
Will dispensaries in Austin still sell THC products?
Yes. While THCA flower may disappear from the market, compliant hemp-derived products like edibles, drinks, and tinctures are expected to remain available.
When do the new Texas hemp rules take effect?
The updated regulations are expected to take effect at the end of March 2026.
Visit MARYJAE® in Austin, Texas
MARYJAE® is an inclusive cannabis boutique located in Austin, Texas, focused on education, quality, and community.
Whether you’re new to hemp-derived THC or a long-time cannabis enthusiast, our team is here to help guide you through the evolving Texas cannabis landscape.
