The Senate State Affairs Committee will meet on Monday, March 3 to consider a number of bills, including two significant cannabis bills filed by Sen. Charles Perry. Both bills include unreasonable restrictions or outright prohibition on THC products.
Senate Bill 3 aims to significantly restrict the legal market for hemp products by banning THC and nearly all other cannabinoids. If passed, the bill would allow consumable hemp products to include only cannabidiol (CBD) or cannabigerol (CBG). Click here for the full bill overview.
Senate Bill 1505 makes changes to the Texas Compassionate Use Program by limiting patient access to THC, but improves distribution options for businesses and legalizes the use of cannabis inhalation, transdermal patches, and suppositories. Click here for the full bill overview.
Committee hearing details can be found here. Those wishing to submit testimony to the committee can do so in several ways:
- Email Testimony to the Committee Clerk: victoria.ross_SC@senate.texas.gov
IMPORTANT: Send separate emails for testimony on each bill (SB 3 and SB 1505). Testimony must include your full name, the bill number, and your position on the bill. Remember to always be respectful and thorough in your communications. This issue is too important for anything less than top-tier professionalism.
- Written Testimony
The clerk will be in the Senate Chamber (hearing location) to receive written testimony from those who wish to submit it in person on the day of the hearing. Written testimony must include your full name, the bill number, and your position on the bill. Bring 25 copies for the committee.
- Oral Testimony
Chairman Hughes is limiting individual testimony to 2 minutes. If you wish to testify in person, please be well prepared, dressed professionally, and concise. Two minutes pass quickly, so hit the highlights and try not to repeat other witnesses. Your written testimony is the appropriate place to expand on your position and provide resources.
NOTE: You can attend this hearing to support sensible cannabis laws without testifying. When you arrive in the Senate Chamber, follow instructions to sign up in opposition to SB 3 and SB 1505.
If you decide to visit the Capitol for this big hearing, please consider scheduling a meeting with your own legislator’s office. Take full advantage of the time you are in Austin! Find your state legislators’ contact information, Capitol room number, and their cannabis voting record here. In the meantime, email them in opposition to SB 3.