In a move aimed at protecting Texas youth, Governor Greg Abbott has called for an intensification of the enforcement of regulations on vape and smoke shops across the state. Abbott has instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to step up its game when it comes to ensuring these establishments adhere to Texas law, with a particular emphasis on keeping hemp products out of the hands of children. "Texas will protect children from dangerous hemp products," the Governor said. "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."
The directive involves a series of concrete steps that DPS is expected to take. The Criminal Investigations Division (CID) is set to carry out targeted operations to identify vape and smoke shops that may be in violation. These shops will undergo inspections, executed in cooperation with state, local, and federal partners, aimed at uncovering any infractions. DPS CID Special Agents will also utilize the information garnered from these inspections to set up undercover operations, aiming to further identify unlawful activities. "DPS CID Special Agents will leverage findings from these inspections to conduct undercover operations to identify unlawful activity, as well as initiate further criminal investigations," according to the Governor's announcement.
Additionally, the DPS Crime Lab will be responsible for the testing of any confiscated products from these investigations. Special Agents from CID will continue to push these cases forward to ensure that charges are brought against employees and shop owners found flouting Texas law. The governor's initiative broadens the scope of enforcement by calling for DPS to work in conjunction with a wider network of law enforcement, amplifying efforts at a local and federal level.
Last month, a precursor to this aggressive stance on hemp product enforcement was set in motion when Governor Abbott issued an executive order. This order, laid the groundwork for immediate action by several state agencies — including the Texas Department of State Health Services, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, and DPS — targeted at the shielding of Texas minors from hemp-derived substances, while still conforming to federal legislation and safeguarding the rights of law-abiding adults. Governor Abbott's office underscored the dual objectives of this order: the protection of children alongside the respect for federal law and paying heed to the freedoms of responsible citizens.
