Post-Session Legislative Briefing on New Texas Cannabis Law

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On Monday, June 23 we hosted a post-session legislative briefing to breakdown new cannabis laws, the impact on cannabis consumers and businesses, continued opportunities for advocacy, and the 2026 political timeline. 

Thanks to the passage of HB46, the Compassionate Use Program is on the verge of significant expansion — increasing patient access and opening the market to more businesses than ever before.

We're headed into overtime on SB3!  Gov. Greg Abbott has vetoed the hemp-derived THC ban, calling lawmakers back to Austin for a special session to regulate consumable hemp products. 

This briefing focused on unpacking legislative changes and preparing advocates and industry leaders for what’s next — the special session, rule-making, elections, political conventions, and the Texas Cannabis Policy Conference at Texas A&M University in September. Let's stay sharp, organized, and forward-thinking!

Governor Greg Abbott has vetoed Senate Bill 3, rejecting a sweeping attempt to ban hemp-derived THC products in Texas. The veto is a major win for economic freedom, public safety, and the thousands of Texans who enjoy these products responsibly.

SB3, driven by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Senator Charles Perry, sought to outlaw nearly all consumable hemp products—including THC products that are available nationwide. Patrick’s public campaign relied on fear-based messaging, including a widely mocked press tour where he tossed THC edibles at reporters. 

Heather Fazio, director of the Texas Cannabis Policy Center, applauded the governor’s decision to veto SB3. “We are deeply grateful to Governor Abbott for listening to the people of Texas and recognizing that regulation is a better approach to ensuring public health safety,” said Fazio. “This is a win for freedom and free markets.”

Governor Abbott’s veto sets us on a better path forward. Advocates now urge lawmakers to support sensible, enforceable regulation during the a special session, which is set to begin on July 21. 

Read more here.

Heather Fazio is a dedicated cannabis advocate with a strong track record of advancing reform efforts in Texas. With a passion for individual liberty and responsible policy, she has worked extensively to educate lawmakers, mobilize grassroots support, and collaborate with coalition partners to drive meaningful change.

Heather has played a key role in organizing training events, legislative briefings, lobby days, and educational exhibits, equipping advocates with the tools they need to engage effectively in the policymaking process. Her leadership in building strategic alliances has helped elevate the conversation around cannabis policy, ensuring that patient rights, personal freedoms, and responsible regulations remain at the forefront of legislative discussions.

Through her years of advocacy, Heather has become a trusted voice in Texas cannabis policy, bridging the gap between the public, lawmakers, and industry stakeholders to foster informed decision-making and meaningful reform.