Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) issued a statement criticizing Governor Greg Abbott's (R) recent executive order on THC regulation. He argues that it legitimizes a dangerous and unregulated industry without providing sufficient protection for minors.
Patrick emphasized that his disagreement with the governor is not personal, but centers on a fundamental policy difference.
"This is not a personal fight with the governor. It is a disagreement on a very important issue," he said.
According to Patrick, the executive order fails to ban the manufacture or sale of synthetic THC products like Delta-8 and Delta-10. He accused the industry of marketing these products to minors and placing stores near schools.
He noted that the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 3, which would have banned these products, passed three times this year with bipartisan support. The bill was ultimately vetoed.
He expressed concern that the executive order anticipates ongoing THC-related crime, yet it still alllows the sale of high-potency products.
"The executive order also anticipates an unlawful resale market that will continue to reach minors and it recognizes local law enforcement will not be enough to keep law breakers in check, requiring the assistance of state police and multiple law enforcement agencies across the state," said Patrick.
He also rejected the claim that states cannot ban THC, citing multiple federal court decisions that affirm state's rights to regulate hemp and THC products.
"The executive order says federal government does not allow states to ban THC. That is simply incorrect," Patrick argued. "Multiple courts have already ruled states can ban THC, and several states have already done so."
He reaffirmed his support for the Texas Compassionate Use Program, and legal CBD products. However, he remains staunchly opposed to any pathway towards recreational marijuana.
