Rural Texans Say Hemp Is An Economic And Health Lifeline As State Lawmakers Push Ban

Some rural Texas residents describe hemp-derived THC products as their only accessible form of relief, both economically and medically — especially in communities underserved by the state's medical marijuana program.

Highlights include:

• People report that hemp-derived THC helped them quit alcohol, tobacco, opioids, and prescription pills — helping communities that have struggled with substance abuse and addiction.
• In small towns like Belleville in Austin County, hemp shops often make up a sizable share of local retail storefronts and contribute significantly to local economies.
• Lawmakers have introduced Senate Bill 5, led by Sen. Charles Perry (R-Lubbock), which would criminalize the sale, possession, and use of any consumable hemp products that contain any cannabinoid other than CBD or CBG—even though many are federally legal.
• Critics of the ban argue that it unfairly targets rural Texans and undermines relief options where medical cannabis dispensaries are sparse or inaccessible. Prices through the Texas Compassionate Use Program are high and travel burdensome.
• Some families, like the Lindeens, rely on hemp-derived THC for seizure control in their children—compounds removed from the state-approved medical program are only available via federal hemp-derived sources.
• A 2025 Whitney Economics report estimates the state hemp industry employs over 53,000 workers across more than 7,000 retail locations in Texas, contributing $5.5 billion in economic activity. A full THC ban could eliminate an estimated $10.2 billion from the state economy.