Texans are still eagerly awaiting changes to their marijuana laws. Dade Phelan, a Republican Texas House Speaker, spoke about the alarming rate of incarceration in Texas and his support of lowering penalties for cannabis possession.
Phelan notes that he is not at all familiar with marijuana, stating that he does not know marijuana from oregano. That doesn’t change the fact that he supports lower penalties for simple possession.
The speaker also talked about his sister who has epilepsy, explaining how small amounts of CBD can really change people’s lives. Phelan called it a “reasonable criminal justice issue”.
Jax James, the executive director of Texas NORML, said, “Reducing the penalties for personal possession of marijuana has long been an important issue to Texas voters. It is important that the speaker of the House has reaffirmed his support for addressing the harsh penalties around minor marijuana possession. Now more than ever, it is important to reprioritize law enforcement’s time.”
A majority of Texans support the legalization of cannabis, both for medicinal and recreational purposes. Sid Miller, Texas Agriculture Commissioner, voiced his support with the following statement: “Cannabis prohibition came from a place of fear, not from medical science or the analysis of social harm.”
So far, Texas has only seen very minor changes to cannabis laws in the past few years. The legislature is mostly conservative, and broad changes have been slow to come about, due to the lack of support from Republican lawmakers.
When Will Texans Be Able to Get Relief?
Texas does have a medical marijuana program, but it is currently very limited. Back in 2019, Texas legalized some forms of marijuana with very low concentrations of THC. CBD may be sold in Texas as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC.
CBD may be helpful for some people, but medical marijuana is a much more effective in reducing pain. Since THC levels are so low in CBD, it isn’t as effective in relieving pain. THC is said to be the strongest cannabinoid in marijuana, so less THC means less relief.
Back in 2018, a poll was conducted where 84% of Texans supported the legalization of cannabis. Since then, many people and lawmakers have made efforts to expand the program to include more THC and other products. Many Texans want to be able to purchase cannabis flower, edibles, and more with high THC to help with their condition.
Here is a list of the current qualifying conditions in Texas:
Epilepsy
Seizure disorders
Multiple sclerosis
Spasticity
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Autism
Terminal cancer
Compared to other states, this list is very short. Along with product availability and higher THC levels, many people also want to see a longer list of qualifying conditions.
Get Ready for Medical Marijuana in Texas
Is the Texas marijuana program going to expand further in 2022? We have no idea.
If you want Texas to expand their medical marijuana program, you should do two things right away. First, let your state representatives know how you feel about Texas’ overly restrictive medical marijuana program. Second, support the cause by finding out if you qualify for a Texas Marijuana Card, and get one if you do.
Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our qualified, compassionate doctors, and we’ll book an appointment for you just as we’re cleared to.
You’ll meet with your new doctor virtually, using your smartphone or computer for a telemedicine appointment. Together you’ll discuss your qualifying condition and how you might benefit from medical marijuana, all without leaving your home. You’ll even save $25 off the cost of your evaluation!
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Texas Marijuana Card, our goal is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.