In a surprising turn of events, Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a bill that aimed to ban THC products in the state, prompting Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick to suggest that Abbott may be paving the way for the legalization of recreational marijuana. The veto came just minutes before a midnight deadline on Sunday and was described by Patrick as Abbott’s potential endorsement of recreational cannabis.
Patrick, who supported the now-vetoed legislation, expressed confusion over Abbott’s decision during a press conference on Monday. He stated, “It puzzles me why my friend Greg Abbott would at the last minute, about 22 minutes after 11, decide to veto this bill.” He articulated his belief that Abbott’s proclamation indicated a desire to move Texas towards legalizing recreational marijuana.
The vetoed bill, known as SB 3, would have prohibited the manufacture and sale of THC within Texas. Abbott defended his decision, arguing that the bill would likely face legal challenges and could be stalled in courts. This veto marks one of the most notable actions during Abbott’s tenure as governor, prompting immediate discussions about the future of cannabis regulation in Texas.
Following the veto, Abbott announced plans for a special legislative session starting July 21, where he indicated that lawmakers would be tasked with regulating hemp products, but did not explicitly outline the agenda concerning THC. Patrick criticized this approach, contending that regulating THC instead of banning it implies a shift toward legalization.
Despite his critical remarks, Patrick clarified his stance by stating, “I’m not mad at the governor, but I’m not going to legalize marijuana in Texas.” This statement reflects a notable shift in Patrick’s tone, as he has previously emphasized unity among Texas leadership. Political analysts have noted that Patrick’s repeated assertions of not being angry reveal underlying frustration with Abbott’s decision.
The implications of Abbott’s veto and the upcoming special session could reshape Texas’s cannabis landscape. Currently, Texas has a limited medical marijuana program, and the recent developments may signal a gradual movement toward broader cannabis reform, including potential legalization efforts in the future. As the debate continues, stakeholders from various sectors will be closely monitoring legislative actions and public sentiment regarding cannabis use in the state.
English 
Spanish 
German 
Czech