It appears that it's no longer a question of if the consumable hemp industry will be shut down in Texas, but when.
Texas House Republicans voted to shut down an industry that's been generating $5.5 billion dollars in annual sales.
State Senator Charles Perry authored it.
"Illegally, high-potency synthetic THC products have flooded the marketplace reaching kids," Perry said.
Democratic State Rep James Talerico's argument wasn't enough to sway the vote.
"Texans will still use THC, but instead of getting it safely from a local small business, they'll now get it from the black market," Talerico said. "This ban is a gift to the cartels."
Senate Bill 3 still needs final approval from the Senate.
If signed into law it would take effect September 1st.
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