Texas Legislature's Final Day: Key Bills Await Governor Abbott's Decision

Legislative Session Concludes

• 🎯 The 89th Texas Legislature has completed its regular session, with the focus now shifting to Governor Greg Abbott.
• ⏳ Governor Abbott has until June 22nd to act on several key bills, including those concerning medical cannabis and hemp products.

Medical Cannabis Expansion (HB 46)

• 📜 One significant bill, HB 46, aims to expand the state's medical marijuana program, known as the compassionate use program.
• 💡 This expansion seeks to provide greater access to medical cannabis for patients.

Ban on THC Products (SB 3)

• ⚠️ Senate Bill 3, championed by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick as a public health concern, proposes to ban the sale of THC products in Texas.
• 💔 A coalition of groups has voiced strong opposition, arguing that SB 3 would restrict access to products crucial for individuals managing trauma or chronic pain, including veterans.
• ⚖️ Opponents of SB 3 have delivered thousands of letters to Governor Abbott's office urging him to veto the bill, with predictions of legal challenges if it becomes law.

Governor Abbott's Decision

• 🧐 Governor Abbott must decide whether to sign or veto these high-profile bills.
• ✅ His decisions on HB 46 and SB 3 will significantly impact access to cannabis and THC products in Texas.

Other Legislative Priorities

• 🏛️ Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick successfully advanced other legislative priorities during the session, including bills on school vouchers, bail reform, and property tax relief.