Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has voiced concerns following Governor Greg Abbott’s unexpected veto of a bill aimed at banning THC, a compound found in cannabis. The veto occurred just minutes before the midnight deadline for the bill, known as SB 3, which would have prohibited the manufacture and sale of THC products in the state. In a press conference, Patrick suggested that Abbott\u2019s actions may indicate a desire to move Texas towards legalizing recreational marijuana.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Patrick, who supported the ban, expressed confusion over Abbott’s decision, stating, “It puzzles me why my friend Greg Abbott would at the last minute, about 22 minutes after 11, decide to veto this bill.” He argued that the veto suggests a shift in Abbott’s stance towards cannabis regulation, leading him to conclude that the governor may want to legalize recreational marijuana.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Abbott’s veto came with a rationale that the bill would likely face legal challenges, which he deemed a significant risk. This veto marks one of the most notable decisions of his tenure as Texas Governor. Following the veto, Abbott announced intentions to call a special legislative session set to begin on July 21, during which he plans to address the regulation of hemp products and other matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Patrick criticized Abbott’s approach, asserting that regulating THC instead of banning it could pave the way for legalizing recreational cannabis. He stated, “I’m not mad at the governor, but I’m not going to legalize marijuana in Texas.” This statement contradicts his previous claims of unity among Texas leadership, as Patrick\u2019s tone shifted to one of open criticism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Experts note that this public disagreement between Patrick and Abbott is unusual. Joshua Blank, the research director at the Texas Politics Project, commented on the tension, saying, “It\u2019s hard to think of a time in which the Lieutenant Governor has been so openly angry at the Governor.” Patrick reiterated his position that he does not support marijuana legalization, even as Abbott’s actions suggest a potential shift in Texas cannabis policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the special session approaches, the future of cannabis regulation in Texas remains uncertain. Abbott has not yet outlined specific plans for the session, but the outcome could significantly influence the state’s cannabis landscape.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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