Where Things Stand Right Now
Earlier this year, Governor Abbott signed HB 46, expanding the Compassionate Use Program (TCUP) and making Texas the 40th state to officially allow medical cannabis use for certain health conditions, such as chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, glaucoma, TBI, and more. It also allows new ways to consume—like vape pens, patches, lotions—and opens the door to more dispensaries. This is a big step forward for patients across the state.
MPPChron
Then came Senate Bill 3 (SB3), which sought to completely ban THC-containing hemp products. Thankfully, Abbott vetoed it, calling instead for regulation—not prohibition—and set August's special session into motion to get it right.
What’s Happening at the Capitol Now
In the current special session, lawmakers are reconsidering how to regulate THC—not wipe it out. Two big bills are on the table:
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SB 5 and SB 6 both propose banning all hemp-derived cannabinoids except CBD and CBG. SB 6 passed the Senate, and now heads to the House—just one of several attempts to narrow legal access again.
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At the same time, HB 195 has been filed—from the House side—and would allow adults to possess limited amounts of THC and regulate cannabis through the Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Meanwhile, one Democratic lawmaker has introduced a legalization bill, proposing adult-use cannabis for those 21+—a bold countermeasure to the bans.
Marijuana Moment
These competing approaches show just how fraught the issue is—Texas is literally arguing over whether to regulate, ban, or legalize.
What’s Next on the Agenda
The special session runs until late 2025, giving lawmakers a tight window to lock in regulation—or further restrict access. Here’s what to watch:
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Will the House push back on SB6’s sweeping restrictions?
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Could HB195 gain bipartisan support—or at least spark conversation?
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Will Abbott support a measured regulatory framework, or throw his weight behind outright bans?
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Most importantly, will the Legislature follow through and create a long-term, fair cannabis policy—or continue flipping in every session?
Why This Matters
This isn’t just politics. These laws affect Texans’ health, well-being, and livelihoods. Veterans, patients, caregivers, small business owners—they’re all paying attention. The difference between access and prohibition may hinge on a few votes—and the pressure we bring.
If You Want to Learn More...
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Compassionate Use Program details (TCUP overview) — Texas Guides
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Expansion of TCUP and new qualifying conditions — Texas Tribune
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Abbott’s veto of SB3 and call for regulations — Axios, Houston Chronicle
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SB 6: Blanket ban of hemp-derived THC except CBD/CBG — Texas Tribune, Statesman
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HB 195 legalizing adult-use cannabis — Texas Tribune
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Legalization bill introduced by a Texas Democrat — Marijuana Moment
Marijuana Moment