With the filing deadline approaching quickly, dozens of cannabis bills have been introduced by Texas lawmakers. Several bills have been referred to committee for further consideration and hearings in the House are expected to begin in the next few weeks.
Last week, the Senate State Affairs Committee hosted a hearing on Senate Bill 3, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s priority legislation aimed at banning all non-medical THC products.
UPDATE: The State Affairs Committee has voted unanimously to advance SB 3!
Next Step: The full Texas Senate will vote on SB 3. The date of this vote is TBD, but it could be as soon as later this week.
We oppose prohibition and therefore oppose SB 3. If passed, the bill would ban the sale THC products, handing this multi-billion dollar industry over to the illicit market. Even worse, SB 3 would severely criminalize the simple possession of federally legal hemp products. Penalties include up to a year in jail, $4,000 in fines, and a permanent criminal record for a drug offense, which carries significant collateral consequences like hindered access to education, employment, and housing. (Bill Overview)
TAKE ACTION: Contact your senator!
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Send a quick email about Senate Bill 3.
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Now is a great time to CALL your senator’s office. Click here to look up your state senator’s phone number. Here’s an example of what you might say when you call:
“Hello, my name is _______. I’m a constituent calling about an important bill that will be up for a vote soon. I’m calling to express my strong opposition to SB 3, the bill that would ban hemp THC products. I support regulations to protect young people, but I’m very concerned about the negative impact of prohibition. Our state will be safer if we choose to regulate these products, rather than criminalizing possession of these federally legal products.”
Be sure to remain respectful and thank your senator for their service to your district.
There are 84 days left in session. Thank you for your dedication to sensible cannabis laws in Texas. Onward!