As the clock ticks closer to the deadline for Texas Governor Greg Abbott to make a decision on the fate of Senate Bill 3, which would ban THC products in the Lone Star state outside the state's medical marijuana program, former NFL running back and Texas Longhorn legend Ricky Williams has stepped onto the field to voice his opposition. Williams, a staunch advocate for cannabis legalization and co-founder of Project Champion, recently called upon Abbott, referring to him as a "friend," to veto the contentious bill. "It's helping veterans manage PTSD, helping people with chronic pain, and offering Texans a safer alternative to opioids," Williams said in a statement obtained by FOX 7 Austin.
The anticipated ban has been a flagship issue for Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who has raised concerns about the industry targeting children with products that resemble candy and snacks and the proximity of shops to schools. Amidst the uncertain silence from Abbott, who has been deflecting questions from reporters, political experts have suggested that the governor may let the bill become law without his signature, as reported by FOX 7 Austin. With the industry contributing $8 billion a year to the state’s economy, Patrick asserts that this money is not finding its way to local, small business owners, but rather enriching those with hidden control within the cannabis industry.
Senate Bill 3 faces staunch opposition, not just from advocates like Williams, but also from several lawmakers. Midlothian Republican Rep. Brian Harrison has expressed concerns over the bill's overreach. "While I appreciate the intent behind SB3, it is an overly broad approach to achieving its goal of protecting children from harmful products; a goal I support," Harrison said. He fears the bill might push consumers towards more dangerous pharmaceuticals or black market alternatives, as cited in an interview with FOX 7 Austin.
Meanwhile, the state legislature has taken steps to expand the compassionate use program to include more qualifying conditions like chronic pain and terminal illnesses. HB 46 is set to widen the availability and methods of THC delivery, as well as add conditions such as traumatic brain injuries and Crohn's disease under the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana. This information is detailed by FOX 7 Austin.
In his passionate advocacy against SB3, Williams underscores the importance of cannabis reform by stating, "Prohibition doesn’t protect people — it puts them in danger," a sentiment he shared through a statement reported by the Houston Chronicle. As a former athlete who has launched his own cannabis brand and actively campaigns for progressive cannabis legislation, Williams remains a high-profile figure in the ongoing debate over the accessibility and legalization of hemp-derived products in Texas.
