SABER Backs State Bans on Synthetic Hemp Cannabinoids Like Delta-8 THC, Urges Science-Based Regulation

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In a September 3, 2025, press release, the nonprofit Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research (SABER) stated its support of recent legislation in multiple states restricting sales of certain synthetic hemp-derived cannabinoids (1). It specified Arkansas, North Carolina, Texas, and Virgina as demonstrating important efforts to control sales of cannabinoids including delta-8 THC, delta-10 THC, THC-O, and HHC.

“We support the states that have taken a decisive step forward by recognizing that chemically synthesized cannabinoids present unique dangers when sold without oversight,” stated Thomas Brendler, PhD, Steering Committee Member at SABER, in the press release. “SABER strongly supports this science-based approach and urges other states and federal regulators to follow suit.”

The press release argued the products containing the synthetic cannabinoids pose risks to public safety, noting the possible presence of harmful residual solvents and undisclosed compounds. It highlighted Texas as a significant factor in the hemp economy, stating that recent legislation in the state demonstrates the need for regulations protecting legitimate businesses in the industry.

On June 22, 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott had vetoed Senate Bill 3 (SB3), which would have prohibited hemp-derived THC in the state (2). In his veto statement, he explained that regulation for the protection of minors is an immediate priority, the bill faced constitutional challenges and a delay of implementation. Multiple industry stakeholders, including the Texas Hemp Business Council and the Texas Cannabis Policy Center voiced their support of the veto, highlighting the detrimental effect the bill would have had on businesses and supported the move toward regulation over prohibition.

Following the veto of SB 3, the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 5, which prohibits the sale of intoxicating cannabinoids – including in beverages – in the state, while still allowing others such as CBD and CBG, and leaving the state medical cannabis program and hemp farming unchanged (3).

“Since 2019, bad actors have taken advantage of a loophole in Texas agriculture law to sell potent, intoxicating forms of THC that have nothing to do with agriculture,” stated Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick in a July 30, press release (3). “These shops have rapidly spread throughout Texas, endangering the health and safety of children and families across our state, with no accountability. These products, often containing dangerous levels of THC, are marketed directly towards young people with colorful packaging and images, making THC look like candy or sweets.”

While SB 5 has stalled in the Senate since August (4), as of September 1, 2025, Senate Bill 2024 took effect in Texas, designating the marketing, advertising, and sale of e-cigarette products – including those containing cannabinoids or are marketed towards minors – as a criminal offense (5).

SABER called for a science-based approach to cannabinoids that promotes clear labeling, transparent supply chains, access to non-intoxicating hemp products, among other methods. “Consumers deserve safe, clearly labeled, and honestly marketed botanical products, not a shadow market of chemically manipulated substances designed to skirt the law,” stated Paula Brown, PhD, Steering Committee Member at SABER and Director of Natural Health, in SABER’s press release.

As explained in the September Stuck on Compliance blog, recent legislative efforts aimed at banning intoxicating hemp products at the federal level have demonstrated the need for hemp companies to prepare for inevitable federal regulation (6). As blog author Kim Anzarut, CEO of Allay Consulting, explains, compliance – including cGMP audits and certification, standard operating procedures – a business strategy is key to thriving in the industry.

References

1. Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research. SABER Urges National Action on Synthetic Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids, Applauds Texas and Other States for Leading the Way https://www.eznewswire.com/newsroom/saber-urges-action-synthetic-hemp-cannabinoids-texas-states (accessed Sep 3, 2025).
2. McEvoy, E. Texas Governor Vetoes Bill to Ban Hemp-Derived THC in the State https://www.cannabissciencetech.com/view/texas-governor-vetoes-bill-to-ban-hemp-derived-thc-in-the-state (accessed Sep 3, 2025).
3. Lieutenant Governor of Texas, Dan Patrick. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick Statement on the Texas Senate’s Bipartisan Passage of Senate Bill 5 – Banning THC https://www.ltgov.texas.gov/2025/07/30/lt-gov-dan-patrick-statement-on-the-texas-senates-bipartisan-passage-of-senate-bill-5-banning-thc/ (accessed Sep 3, 2025).
4. Texas Legislature Online. Senate Bill 5. https://legiscan.com/TX/votes/SB5/2025/X1 (accessed Sep 3, 2025).
5. Texas Legislature Online. Senate Bill 2024. https://legiscan.com/TX/text/SB2024/2025 (accessed Sep 3, 2025).
6. Anzarut, K. The Hemp Ban That Wasn’t (Yet): Why Federal Gridlock Makes Compliance More Important Than Ever https://www.cannabissciencetech.com/view/the-hemp-ban-that-wasn-t-yet-why-federal-gridlock-makes-compliance-more-important-than-ever (accessed Sep 3, 2025).