Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick Announces Legislative Push to Ban All Forms of THC in Texas
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has unveiled Senate Bill 3, a sweeping legislative proposal aimed at banning all forms of consumable tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products in Texas. This initiative comes in response to what Patrick describes as the unchecked proliferation of THC-laden products marketed to the public, including children.
“Thousands of stores have opened to sell all types of dangerous products with unlimited THC,” Patrick stated. “These stores even target your children.”
Patrick highlighted the roots of the issue, pointing to the Texas Legislature’s 2019 passage of House Bill 1325. The bill, authored by Rep. Tracy King (D-Uvalde), was designed to boost Texas agriculture by legalizing the commercialization of hemp containing trace, non-intoxicating amounts of Delta-9 THC. However, Patrick accused retailers of exploiting this law to distribute unregulated and dangerous THC products that he says now flood communities across the state.
“These products are not only sold to adults, but they also target Texas children and expose them to dangerous levels of THC,” he said. Patrick cited a rapid rise in stores selling such products since 2023, including beverages and edibles with THC concentrations far exceeding those found in regulated marijuana.
Senate Bill 3, authored by Sen. Charles Perry (R-Lubbock), aims to close what Patrick describes as loopholes that have allowed these products to enter the market. The bill will target all forms of THC, banning their sale entirely in Texas. Patrick expressed confidence that the bipartisan support the bill is expected to garner in both the Senate and the House will lead to its swift passage.
“This bill will have broad bipartisan support in the Senate,” Patrick noted, adding that he trusts the House will also see the urgency of the issue and pass the measure with overwhelming support. “We are not going to allow these retailers to circumvent the law and put Texans’ lives in danger.”
Patrick’s statement signals a significant escalation in Texas’ approach to THC regulation, with potential ramifications for retailers, consumers, and agricultural businesses across the state. The legislative session, where the bill will be debated, is expected to draw intense attention from stakeholders on all sides of the issue.
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