Texas Governor Weighs Ban on THC Products Amid Dueling Press Conferences
As the Texas legislative session comes to a close, Governor Greg Abbott is faced with a decision on whether to sign or veto a bill that would ban the sale of consumable THC products in the state. The bill, Senate Bill 3, would only allow the sale of CBD and CBG, non-psychoactive cannabis compounds.
Supporters of the ban, led by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, held a press conference at the Texas State Capitol, where they expressed concerns about the unregulated nature of THC products and their potential harm to consumers, particularly children. Patrick argued that the products are a threat to an entire generation and that the ban is necessary to protect public health.
However, opponents of the ban, including the Texas Hemp Business Council and industry leaders, held a counter-press conference, where they argued that the bill would dismantle a thriving $4.3 billion industry that supports over 53,000 jobs. They also claimed that the ban would open the door to unregulated and unsafe products in Texas.
Veterans, who have used THC products to manage their symptoms and avoid prescription medications, also spoke out against the ban. They argued that the products have been a lifeline for them and that the ban would turn them into criminals.
The Texas Hemp Business Council delivered over 114,000 petitions to Abbott’s office, urging him to veto the bill. The group argued that the products are safe, regulated, and effective, and that the ban would harm law-abiding entrepreneurs, farmers, and small business owners.
Meanwhile, supporters of the ban claimed that retailers have exploited the current law and are selling products with dangerous levels of THC, marketed to children. They urged Abbott to sign the bill into law to protect public health.
The bill does not impact the state’s medical cannabis program, the Compassionate Use Program, which was expanded this session to include more ailments and dispensary licenses. However, some veterans expressed concerns that the program is expensive and may not be accessible to all who need it.
Abbott has until June 22 to make a decision on the bill. The outcome is uncertain, but the debate highlights the complex and contentious issues surrounding cannabis regulation in Texas.
