New Testing Methodology For Cannabis and Hemp in Texas

In Texas, an article in the Houston Chronicle discussed that Houston\’s Forensic Science Center had devised a testing procedure which is capable of distinguishing between hemp and cannabis. In June 2019, a law was enacted that distinguishes between hemp and cannabis containing more than 0.3% THC content. This law was intended to act as a protective measure for hemp farmers. It did create a question at the federal level, since the THC content of the plant had to be proven.

At that time, laboratories in Texas weren\’t equipped to provide evidence that state licensors needed to enforce the regulations. State agencies had to be utilized, and costly services of private laboratories had to be relied upon.

It took more than one year of work, and then, two lab employees adapted a DEA testing method to aid in the distinguishing between hemp and cannabis.