Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to intensify enforcement actions against vape and smoke shops that do not comply with state regulations regarding hemp products.
“Texas will protect children from dangerous hemp products,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to increase surveillance and enforcement of any vape and smoke shop violating Texas law. Texas will prioritize protecting our children.”
Under the Governor’s direction, DPS’ Criminal Investigations Division (CID) is set to conduct targeted operations aimed at identifying shops of concern. These operations will involve collaboration with state, local, and federal agencies to carry out inspections and determine potential legal violations. Findings from these inspections may lead CID Special Agents to conduct undercover operations in order to uncover unlawful activities and initiate further criminal investigations.
Any products seized during these investigations will be tested by the DPS Crime Lab. If violations are found, CID Special Agents are expected to pursue charges against employees and shop owners who break Texas law. The DPS also plans to utilize its partnerships with federal and local law enforcement agencies as part of these efforts.
This move follows an executive order issued last month by Governor Abbott that directed several state agencies—including the Texas Department of State Health Services, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, and DPS—to take immediate steps to safeguard children in Texas from hemp-derived products while adhering to federal regulations and maintaining adult liberties.
