Texas lawmakers are on the verge of making a devastating mistake. A bill currently advancing in the state legislature would ban nearly all consumable THC products, just a few years after they were legalized and transformed into a life-saving, life-changing industry for countless Texans.

For many, THC isn't about getting high, it's about getting relief. It's about surviving chronic pain, managing PTSD, overcoming trauma, and finally being able to sleep through the night.

Veterans like Terence Jones, who lost both legs and part of an arm in Afghanistan, credit hemp-derived THC with helping them safely leave behind addictive opioids.

He is not alone. Texans of all backgrounds: seniors, working parents, cancer patients, people living with anxiety or epilepsy have found healing and peace through these products.

Why take that away?

This industry has created thousands of jobs, generated millions in tax revenue, and helped Texans reclaim their quality of life — all without the devastation of Big Pharma. Yet lawmakers are now poised to shut it all down, citing fear, misinformation, and tragic exceptions as justification for punishing everyone.

We agree that THC products should be regulated. They should be kept out of the hands of minors. But banning them will only push people to riskier alternatives — black market products, out-of-state suppliers, or dangerous pharmaceutical substitutes. 

Melanne Carpenter, who runs a dispensary in Missouri City, says 75–80% of her customers use these products for pain, anxiety, or sleep. These aren’t reckless users, they’re everyday people just trying to feel better. What happens to them if lawmakers take this away?

We are asking the Texas Legislature to listen to the people. Protect our health. Protect our veterans. Protect our small businesses. Don't criminalize relief. Don't punish those who are doing everything right just because a few aren't.

Photo: Andrew Schneider/Houston Public Media