Significant changes could be coming to cannabis laws in Texas very soon. On Monday, March 25th a Texas House Committee approved a bill that would decriminalize cannabis in the state of Texas. While this vote did not officially decriminalize cannabis in the state, it is one more step completed with success in the process to do so. The bill has now been assigned to another committee which will schedule it for a floor debate. The Criminal Jurisprudence Committee voted 5-2 to in favor of the bill. If the same support is shown as the bill passes through other committees, it might not be long before massive reform comes to cannabis laws in the state of Texas.
The Bill Details
The bill would reduce the punishment for the possession of 1 oz or less of cannabis. For the first and second offenses violators will face a $250 fine rather than jail time. After the second offense possession under 1 oz would be considered a Class C misdemeanor. Compared to the current laws this is still very lenient. As it stands today having up to 2 oz of cannabis is regarded as a Class B misdemeanor. This Class B misdemeanor currently holds a consequence of up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $2,000, permanent criminal history and the many downfalls that come along with it.
A Note from Texas for Responsible Marijuana Policy Director
House Bill 63 could be the historical bill that finally brings change to cannabis laws in Texas. According to Heather Fazio the Director of Texas for Responsible Marijuana Policy they are “very optimistic about the chances of HP 63 passing on the floor of the Texas house, overall lawmakers on both sides of the aisle agree that we shouldn’t be wasting valuable criminal justice resources arresting and prosecuting people for small amounts of marijuana. Texas is ready!”
According to recent reports… 61% of Americans are ready for and supportive of legalization nationwide!
Do you live in Texas? What are your thoughts on this bill? Weed love to hear from you in the comments below!
