Big Waves in DC, Smooth Sailing in Texas: Understanding the Federal Hemp Ban
There’s been a splash of national headlines about a “hemp ban,” and plenty of Texans are wondering if their favorite sunset sips are drifting out to sea. Good news: the tides are calmer than they look.
Let’s break down what happened in Washington — and why Texas is still in chill mode.
Why Congress Passed a Hemp Ban (Without Really Debating Hemp)
The recent “ban” wasn’t part of a focused hemp reform bill. It was added to a continuing resolution, a must-pass package that kept the federal government open. When the clock was ticking, hemp language got swept into the mix.
The new federal definition — scheduled for late 2026 — would classify most hemp beverages and edibles as marijuana due to an ultra-low THC cap.
But the key word here is scheduled. Nothing has changed today.
CRS Says Enforcement Is… Unclear
The Congressional Research Service, which advises lawmakers on policy implications, put it plainly: "it remains unclear if and how federal law enforcement will enforce the new prohibitions when the new definition goes into effect."
Translation: No one knows yet how (or even if) this would be policed.
Meanwhile, lawmakers from both parties are already drafting bills to revise or reverse the change before it ever kicks in.
Texas Doesn’t Just Go With the Current — It Sets Its Own Course
Even if the federal definition eventually sticks, Texas maintains authority over hemp sales within the state. That means Texas-made hemp beverages sold strictly in Texas can continue to operate under state rules.
We simply lose the ability to ship them out of state.
And the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is continuing to build out hemp regulations — something they wouldn’t do if the industry were drifting away.
Texas Hemp Consumers Should Not Panic
- The ban isn't active
- Federal enforcement in Texas is unlikely
- Texas intrastate sales should remain legal
- Beach Break isn't going anywhere
We’ll keep serving up breezy, coast-inspired THC beverages that help you relax into your day — right here in Texas.
