Skip to main content
Marijuana in Texas

Hemp is booming in Texas. Distinguishing it from marijuana is still a challenge.

In this video, The Texas Tribune dug into hemp and marijuana with lawmakers, crime lab scientists, criminal defense attorneys and hemp entrepreneurs.

by Todd Wiseman, Jolie McCullough, Justin Dehn and Peyton Young

Last year, Texas lawmakers legalized hemp. Now, hemp and products with CBD, its main derivative, can be found in stores throughout the state.

But the hemp law also complicated enforcement of marijuana laws. The legal definition of the drug changed from the cannabis plant to cannabis containing more than 0.3% THC, the compound in the plant that produces a high. That definition change left prosecutors, police and crime labs scrambling to find a way to distinguish legal hemp from pot.

The Texas Tribune took a look at what has happened under the new law, and what it may mean for Texas' future.

Quality journalism doesn't come free

Perhaps it goes without saying — but producing quality journalism isn't cheap. At a time when newsroom resources and revenue across the country are declining, The Texas Tribune remains committed to sustaining our mission: creating a more engaged and informed Texas with every story we cover, every event we convene and every newsletter we send. As a nonprofit newsroom, we rely on members to help keep our stories free and our events open to the public. Do you value our journalism? Show us with your support.

Yes, I'll donate today

Information about the authors

Todd Wiseman’s staff photo
Jolie McCullough’s staff photo
Justin Dehn’s staff photo
Peyton Young’s staff photo