Is weed legal in Texas? The short answer – no. While the answer seems simple, there is still a large amount of grey area surrounding concepts like cannabis possession and criminal penalty. To clear up some of this confusion, we took a look at Texas’ changing pot laws.
Can I Buy Weed in Texas?
In 2019, Texas lawmakers legalized some forms of the cannabis plant, but not all. This was a small step towards the legalization of weed in Texas. Hemp and CBD have been legalized for sale, however, they must contain less than 0.3% THC. While these forms of cannabis are legal, they are non-psychoactive.
Can I Possess Cannabis in Texas?
Following the question of “is weed legal in Texas” comes the measure of risk. It is still illegal to possess cannabis in Texas. However, in places like Austin, the police department has essentially decriminalized the possession of a misdemeanor amount of cannabis.
“APD will no longer cite or arrest individuals with sufficient identification for Class A or Class B misdemeanor possession of marijuana offenses, unless there is an immediate threat to a person’s safety or doing so as part of the investigation of a high priority, felony-level narcotics case or the investigation of a violent felony,” said police Chief Brian Manley on the subject of weed legalization in Texas. While Austin has loosened up on the enforcement of marijuana prosecution, other cities vary in penalty levels.
The Texas House also passed a bill to lower the criminal penalty for possessing small amounts of cannabis (one ounce or less). In doing so, many Texans who have been charged with crimes of marijuana possession will be able to clear their records.
What Does the Future of Weed Legalization in Texas Look Like?
The future of weed legalization in Texas depends on the public. Check the current status of weed legalization in Texas.
Austin voters will have a chance in May to vote on the decriminalization of the possession of small amounts of cannabis, putting into law what is already standard police practice.
Other groups like the one backing this initiative will create opportunities for new votes on the ballet. Until then, weed remains illegal in Texas.