The tug-of-war between the legalization and decriminalization of marijuana-related offenses in Texas could soon see an end with a new bill in the mix. A Texas representative out of Dallas has filed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana in the state, directly combating Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit rampage against the usage.
The Dallas defender, Rep. Jessica Gonzalez, filed House Bill 1208 to legalize the cultivation, manufacturing, transportation, and sale of cannabis. The bill would allow those 21 years and older to possess and transport 2.5 ounces of cannabis for personal use. Adults could also keep up to 10 ounces of cannabis stored in a secure location in their homes.
Additionally, the bill would also make provisions for its production and sale, including requiring that the packaging be child-resistant and clearly labeled so that it’s not confused with candy. To grow, transport, test, or sell cannabis, the bill also details they would need to be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
The bill is written to even financially benefit the state with a 10% tax imposed on the sale of all cannabis and cannabis products. If passed, the bill would take effect on September 1, 2025.
Voters are ready for change. State leaders are not.
Like Dallas, voters in Lockhart and Bastrop have grown with the change and approved their own decriminalized marijuana charters. But it seems no matter how much majority vote cities receive, state leaders are ready to swoop in and implement their own initiatives.
Paxton has filed a string of lawsuits against the city charters decriminalizing marijuana-related offenses, including Dallas. Paxton is suing not only the bill itself but the city and lawmakers who pushed for its approval. He is also joined by Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick, who launched a legislative initiative to ban all THC products.
While cities like San Marcos and Austin stood their ground and won in the courtroom, several others still hang in the balance. Lockhart and Bastrop have yet to be named by Paxton in the courtroom, but activists are already bracing for the punch.
“We are not taking the possibility lightly. We remain steadfast in our commitment to defend the will of Lockhart voters, who voiced their demand for reform loud and clear. The actions targeting local reforms won’t deter us; they only strengthen our resolve. Texans are worth more than policies that divide and punish,” Executive Director with Mano Amiga Action Eric Martinez told MySA.
Nonprofit Mano Amiga Action, who led the charge in Lockhart, says they will continue to organize, educate, and defend the rights of Texans to “demand a future where every community is free to prioritize the well-being of its people without fear of state overreach.”
Martinez also says the cannabis challenges are much deeper than they appear; this issue stretches further into Texas’ democracy and unity of the state.
“We believe Texans, across race and place, are united in their vision for a state where freedom, fairness, and dignity are upheld. This issue is not just about cannabis—it’s about the future of a Texas that works for all of us, no exceptions,” he said.
H/T: www.mysanantonio.com
