Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has expressed disappointment and frustration with Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to veto Senate Bill 3, which would have banned the sale and possession of THC consumables in the state. Patrick claims that the veto has rendered the newly expanded medical marijuana program, known as the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP), “worthless.”
The TCUP was expanded earlier this year to include new qualifying conditions, such as PTSD, Crohn’s disease, and terminal illnesses, and to allow for new delivery methods, including aerosol and vapor products. However, Patrick argues that the veto of SB 3 has undermined the program’s effectiveness, as patients can now easily access THC products at smoke shops rather than through the regulated medical marijuana program.
Patrick also criticized Governor Abbott for not providing a clear explanation for his decision to veto the bill, and for not consulting with lawmakers or the medical community before making the move. He suggested that the governor may have been influenced by outside forces, and called for transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
The veto of SB 3 has sparked a debate about the regulation of THC products in Texas, with some arguing that a ban is necessary to protect public health and safety, while others believe that regulation and oversight are a more effective way to ensure the safe and responsible use of these products.
In response to the veto, Governor Abbott has called for a special legislative session to address the issue of THC regulation, and has indicated that he plans to introduce legislation that would regulate the sale and possession of THC products rather than banning them outright. The special session is set to begin on July 21, and is expected to be a contentious and highly debated topic.