Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick Criticizes Governor Abbott's Veto of THC Ban Bill

Veto of Senate Bill 3

• 💡 Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick expresses strong disagreement with Governor Greg Abbott's veto of Senate Bill 3, which aimed to ban THC products.
• 🎯 Patrick highlights that SB3 had overwhelming support, with 105 out of 108 Republicans voting for it, along with support from police departments, the pediatric association, and the Texas Medical Association.
• 📌 The veto is seen as a surprise, especially given the broad support for the bill and Patrick's previous understanding that the governor would sign it.

Concerns Over Legalizing Marijuana

• ⚠️ Patrick argues that Governor Abbott's veto effectively legalizes recreational marijuana in Texas, either intentionally or unintentionally.
• 🚫 He contends that Abbott's proposed regulatory approach is flawed and would not prevent the continued sale of dangerous products, leading to devastating consequences for families and children.
• 🚨 Patrick cites recent incidents, including a large drug bust of 34 tons of product, seven students hospitalized from THC gummies, and a 15-year-old shooting his mother after consuming gummies, as evidence of the danger.

Legal and Constitutional Arguments

• ⚖️ Patrick refutes Governor Abbott's claims that SB3 would face insurmountable constitutional challenges and injunctions, citing existing court rulings that allow states to ban or more stringently regulate THC products.
• 🏛️ He points to states like California and Colorado, which have banned THC due to its dangers, and argues that the governor's reliance on a single district court case from Arkansas is misplaced.
• 🧐 Patrick questions the governor's assertion that banning the product would constitute a "taking," especially when dealing with illegal substances, and notes that Abbott's own proposed regulations might also face legal challenges.

The Governor's Proclamation and Motivations

• 📜 Patrick criticizes the governor's proclamation for being contradictory and seemingly lifting language directly from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) code, suggesting a lack of thorough consideration.
• ❓ He questions who influenced the governor's decision to veto the bill so late in the session, especially after assurances that the bill was fine.
• 🎯 Patrick believes the governor's actions force the legislature into a difficult position: either allow the dangerous status quo to continue or capitulate to regulating what he views as legalized marijuana.

Future Implications and Texas Culture

• 🚫 Patrick states he will not support a bill that legalizes marijuana in Texas, emphasizing that the state should not become like Washington, Oregon, or Colorado.
• 📉 He expresses concern that widespread marijuana use would negatively impact work productivity and the overall culture of Texas.
• 🤝 While respecting the governor, Patrick asserts his commitment to standing up for the people of Texas and their desire to avoid legalization.

Special Session and Legislative Options

• 🔁 Patrick discusses the difficult position the legislature is in, with the choice between doing nothing and allowing the status quo, or passing a bill that he believes effectively legalizes marijuana.
• 🚫 He suggests that repealing the previously passed bill or passing a new bill to ban THC again are options, but notes the governor has called for regulation, not a ban.
• ❓ Patrick questions the feasibility of regulating 8,000-9,000 shops effectively with limited law enforcement, especially for products with high THC levels.