Texas Governor Faces Pressure Over THC Ban Decision

AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Governor Greg Abbott is under increasing political pressure regarding Senate Bill 3, which would ban the sale of THC-infused products. While Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick pushes for the measure, proponents from the hemp industry urge Abbott to veto it.

The debate has intensified, drawing criticism from both conservatives and liberals. According to a recent poll by the Texas Politics Project, 55% of Republicans believe Texas’ marijuana laws should be less strict or maintained as they are. In contrast, only 40% support stricter regulations on THC.

Patrick has branded products like THC gummies and vapes as “poison,” citing the need for stringent regulations. During a news conference last week, he displayed a THC-infused lollipop, claiming it is misleadingly marketed to children. He emphasized, “You might go into a store and buy ‘em and not even know that you’re getting your kid high on drugs.”

Hemp industry leaders proposed an alternative plan to limit THC sales to individuals aged 21 and older and restrict marketing near schools. They argue this would reduce dependency on the substance.

Despite Patrick’s advocacy for the ban, some veterans are speaking out against it. Dave Walden, a member of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars, shared how THC helps him manage PTSD and chronic pain. “THC gummies brought me back,” he said. “Let’s stop pretending this is about public safety. This is about control and veterans are caught in the crossfire.”

As lawmakers wrapped up the session, more than 120,000 signatures were delivered to Abbott’s office urging him to veto the bill. An Abbott spokesperson stated he would “thoughtfully review” the legislation, but no official stance has yet been given.

Abbott has 20 days from the end of the session to sign or veto the bill, or it will become law without his signature. Industry leaders contend that banning THC products could create a black market and undermine Texas’ business-friendly reputation.

On one side of the argument, some educators and lawmakers support the ban, fearing that THC products contribute to various societal crises, including addiction. State Rep. David Lowe, a veteran himself, voiced concerns that THC merely numbs symptoms rather than offering real healing. He stated, “It doesn’t heal, it numbs the symptoms, gives false comfort and delays the real work of recovery.”

As Abbott contemplates the decision, advocates across the state remain divided, emphasizing the urgent need for a resolution that addresses both public health and veterans’ needs.