Editor’s Note: The video above is previous KXAN coverage.
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to Strengthen enforcement on e-cigarette and smoke shops Which does not comply with state laws and regulations on Tuesday.
“Today I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to increase monitoring and enforcement of any vape and smoke shop that violates Texas law,” Abbott said. “Texas will prioritize protecting our children.”
DPS will tighten cannabis enforcement by doing the following issued by Abbott:
- DPS’ Criminal Investigation Divisions (CID) will conduct targeted operations to identify vape shops of concern. They will then work with state, local and federal partners to conduct inspections to identify legal violations.
- CID Special Agents will utilize the results of these searches to conduct undercover operations to identify illegal activity as well as initiate further criminal investigations.
- The DPS Crime Lab will conduct testing on any products seized from these investigations. CID Special Agents will pursue charges against the employees and store ownership in violation of Texas law.
- DPS will leverage all federal and local law enforcement partnerships to enhance these investigations.
Last Friday, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) issued two emergency rules regarding the sale of cannabis products to minors. According to previous reports, consumers under the age of 21 are not allowed to purchase cannabis products in the state of Texas.
This follows an executive order from Abbott, requiring state agencies to restrict cannabis sales to children.
In the second emergency rule, the administration said it can revoke the license or registration of anyone found selling, providing or delivering cannabis products to a minor. However, an exception can be made for the seller if a minor incorrectly displays a valid ID.