Texas' Lieutenant Governor, Dan Patrick, is making waves with his recent push to implement a total ban on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products across the state. This move has sparked significant backlash among business owners and advocacy groups, particularly from those operating within the state's burgeoning cannabis sector. They argue this ban could cripple the industry, which has rapidly expanded since the legalization of consumable hemp products in 2019.
On Wednesday, Patrick announced plans for legislation aimed at stopping the sale of all THC items, labeling them as dangerous. His proposal has drawn immediate criticism from Houston-area THC shops and retailers, who fear they might have to shut down should the legislation pass during the upcoming session starting in January.
Scott Stubbs, president of Sublingwell Brands, expressed his dismay, stating, "He [Patrick] uses the word dangerous, and I completely disagree with him. We are not selling life-threatening forms of THC." Stubbs, who manages three stores and aims for a fourth location, revealed he might have to reconsider his plans if the ban goes through. He added, "I love Texas, but I would probably try to find another state to operate until we can fight to keep naturally-occurring full spectrum THC legal."
Stubbs' business primarily serves individuals seeking alternative remedies for pain and anxiety relief, especially those aiming to avoid alcohol or prescription medications. Another local dispensary, Houston High Society, echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the frustration of losing viable alternatives for veterans and individuals struggling with various health issues. “It’s incredibly frustrating for our clients who are reaching out for options other than alcohol or prescription drugs,” remarked a representative from the dispensary.
The debate around this ban transcends individual businesses. Heather Fazio, director of Texans for Responsible Marijuana Policy, highlighted the need for regulation rather than prohibition, stating, "The bottom line is prohibition has never worked." Fazio believes the focus should be on tightening existing regulations, such as age restrictions and enhanced lab testing for products.
Fazio noted, "Most of the state's over 7,000 retailers are adhering to regulations well," yet acknowledged the difficulties faced by the Department of State Health Services, which is often under-resourced and struggles to inspect the market effectively. Many feel Patrick's focus on banning THC is misplaced, especially when there are pressing issues needing attention.
Critics like the Texas Cannabis Collective took to social media to question Patrick's legislative priorities. They stated, “So you’re telling us, out of all the issues facing Texas, banning all THC products is of the highest priority for the Texas Senate?” This sentiment reflects broader concerns over the efficiency and focus of current legislative agendas.
Adding to the complexity, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has voiced his dissent against the proposed ban. Reflecting on the shifting political views within the Republican Party, he suggested finding consensus is imperative, stating, “We know what the polls say. It’s time to support the will of the people of Texas.” Miller has long been a proponent of the Compassionate Use Program, which allows for the medical prescription of low-THC cannabis products.
The Compassionate Use Program is significant, as Patrick's proposed ban would exempt this program, allowing certain patients continued access to low levels of THC for medical use. Currently, state law permits commercialized hemp products as long as their THC content does not exceed 0.3 percent. Allowed cannabinoids include delta-8, delta-9, and CBD, which won’t be affected by his proposal.
Nevertheless, the proposed legislation sparks anxiety within the cannabis community. Advocacy groups have pointed out potential ramifications of pushing the THC market underground, increasing exposure to unsafe, unregulated products. Proponents of legalization argue, “Imagine spending billions fighting against cannabis and continuously losing. It’s time for Texas to legalize whole-plant cannabis.” This growing sense of urgency reflects the changing perceptions around cannabis use and regulation.
While Patrick rallies support for his ban, the rapid growth of the cannabis market in Texas hints at broader trends favoring acceptance rather than prohibition. The market, having transformed since the legalization of hemp products, serves nearly 7,000 retailers statewide and is valued at several billion dollars. Firms within the industry worry about the future if Patrick manages to push this ban through.
The discussions surrounding this legislation are unlikely to quiet down soon. With various factions within the state government showing differing opinions on cannabis laws, it’ll be interesting to see how these debates shape the future of THC products in Texas. The upcoming legislative session promises to be contentious as stakeholders battle over the direction of cannabis policy, making this one of the key political issues of the new year.