Texas' THC Ban Threatens San Antonio's Economy and Veterans: A Call to Action

By River Walk Magazine Editorial Team

Austin, Texas - Texas lawmakers are advancing Senate Bill 3 (SB 3), a sweeping proposal that would ban all forms of THC, including hemp-derived products like Delta-8 and Delta-9. This last-minute move could deal a devastating blow to small businesses and veterans alike—especially in San Antonio, known as Military City USA. With this proposed ban now under consideration in the Texas House, business owners, veterans, and advocates are calling on the public to take a stand.

The 2019 Green Light—and What Texans Built Because of It

In 2019, Texas legalized the cultivation and sale of hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC, aligning with federal policy. That legislative green light ignited a boom in hemp-related commerce across the state. More than 8,000 businesses entered the market, building what has become an $8 billion industry statewide. From local storefronts to wellness boutiques and distribution centers, entrepreneurs invested heavily in this legal sector—with long-term leases, staffing, and inventory commitments made under the assumption that the state would stand by its decision.

Now, with the stroke of a pen, that foundation may be wiped out.

“This reversal sends a terrible message about Texas being ‘open for business,’” said one San Antonio-based hemp store owner. “Thousands of us built our livelihoods around the law they passed. Now they want to pull the rug out from under us.”

The Toll on Veterans: PTSD, Pain, and a Safer Alternative

The ban would also eliminate access to hemp-derived THC for Texas veterans, many of whom rely on these products to manage post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and chronic pain. These are often conditions that are not easily addressed through traditional prescriptions.

San Antonio—home to Joint Base San Antonio and one of the largest veteran populations in the country—stands to be disproportionately affected.

“We are Military City USA. We can’t claim to support our veterans and then take away the very thing helping many of them sleep, eat, and function,” said a local veteran advocate.

State Representative Josey Garcia, a veteran herself, has spoken out against the proposed ban:

“We must prioritize the well-being of our veterans. This ban will not protect public health—it will jeopardize it.”

Economic Fallout: Jobs, Investments, and Local Economies at Risk

Thousands of small Texas businesses—many of them family-owned—could shutter overnight if SB 3 passes. The ripple effects would be felt in commercial real estate, logistics, retail employment, and tax revenue.

“This isn’t just about THC,” one San Antonio small business coalition leader stated. “This is about confidence in state policy. When the government changes the rules after people invest millions, it makes Texas look like a risky place to do business.”

Proponents of the Ban: Public Safety or Overreach?

Supporters of SB 3 argue that regulating THC is necessary to prevent the proliferation of untested or dangerous products. Some lawmakers express concern that products sold in convenience stores or smoke shops may be accessible to minors or mislabeled.

But critics counter that eliminating regulated access could push consumers into unsafe black markets, increasing the risk of contamination or abuse.

“If safety is the concern, regulate better. Don’t destroy the entire ecosystem,” said a Dallas-based hemp policy analyst.

What Texans Can Do Right Now

This fight isn’t over—but time is short.

If you’re a small business owner, a veteran, a caregiver, or a concerned citizen, now is the time to act. Contact your Texas House Representative and State Senator. Tell them:

• You support safe, legal access to hemp-derived THC.
• You stand with Texas businesses who built under state law.
• You refuse to let veterans lose access to a product that helps them manage real trauma.

Find your representatives at: https://capitol.texas.gov

Let lawmakers know that Texas should remain a state that values free enterprise, responsible access, and the well-being of those who served.

🗣️ For continued updates on policy, public health, and economic equity in San Antonio, subscribe at the bottom of RiverWalkMagazine.com and stay informed.

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