#United States #Texas #Texas THC Support #Bayou City Hemp #Hemp Regulation

Strong Support for Legalized THC in Texas

A recent poll conducted by Baselice Associates has made waves across Texas, revealing that 68% of voters in the state support the legal status of consumable THC—including a surprising level of bipartisan support. The survey, carried out in collaboration with the Bayou City Hemp Company, Hemp Beverage Alliance, and the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, indicates that residents are in favor of strict regulations rather than an outright ban on THC products.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The poll results highlight a significant trend among various political affiliations:

• - 57% of Republicans voiced their support for keeping THC legal, a stark contrast to just 20% who desired a complete ban.
• - Independents showed an even stronger lean towards legalization, with 72% favoring legalized THC while only 17% called for a ban.
• - Among Democrats, the support soared to 80%, with just 10% backing a prohibition.

This strong consensus is particularly intriguing given previous polls, including one by the Hobby School of Public Affairs, that noted a misleading 61% of Republicans wanting to ban THC. The managing of perceptions around the complex issue of THC usage appears critical, as many voters remain unclear about its implications, primarily due to the psychoactive effects it presents and concerns involving children.

The Case for Regulation

Supporters of legalized THC emphasize its benefits compared to alcohol and underscore its medicinal properties. They advocate for a structured and responsible approach to legalization, which would include features like lab testing, certification, warning labels, and strict age restrictions. Ben Meggs, co-founder and CEO of the Bayou City Hemp Company, stated that banning THC would not only disregard the voters’ preferences but also eliminate thousands of jobs that have emerged from the hemp industry in Texas over the past six years.

Legislative Implications

Complicating matters, the Texas Senate is preparing to vote on Senate Bill 3, which seeks to ban consumable THC outright. The hemp sector is now urging lawmakers to heed the poll's findings and establish regulations grounded in common sense rather than prohibition. Legal experts, such as Jonathan Miller, General Counsel at the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, noted that voters from all political stripes want a controlled market that prioritizes health and safety over blanket bans that could drive the industry underground, creating potential public health risks. The practical solution, according to advocates, lies in thoughtful regulations that safeguard consumers and improve transparency.

Conclusion

As Texans await legislative decisions, the pressure mounts for state officials to comply with the clear wishes of their constituents. With a robust majority urging for legalized and regulated THC, ignoring public sentiment could lead to significant discontent among the electorate and threaten the expansion of the state's burgeoning hemp market. The forthcoming weeks will be pivotal in determining the future of consumable THC in Texas. The survey was conducted from March 10-12, 2025, involving 600 likely voters and carrying a margin of error of ±4%.