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A new poll shows Texans want to ban THC but are in favor of legalizing the use of recreational marijuana, suggesting confusion about the plant's properties.
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Texas but the state has seen an exploding market of largely unregulated consumable hemp containing THC, the main psychoactive component in cannabis that causes the sensation of feeling high.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has pushed to ban all THC consumable products — such as Delta 8 and Delta 9 — that are widely available across the state. He took to X about the findings of the poll saying, "People simply don't want them around."
But the findings of the poll from the University of Houston's Hobby School of Public Affairs also show 62% of respondents are in favor of legalizing the use of recreational marijuana.
"Texas is surrounded by states which already allow casino gambling, and several have legalized or eased marijuana regulations,” Renée Cross, researcher and senior executive director of the Hobby School said. “Proponents of both legalized gambling and legalized marijuana argue Texans are taking money that could be spent here out of state.”
A new survey from the Hobby School asked Texans to weigh in on the legalization of gambling and marijuana. The findings indicate majority support for easing restrictions while addressing differences in opinion based on demographics. Read the report at https://t.co/TunitcMOT4. pic.twitter.com/XxkADMhHdN
— Hobby School of Public Affairs (@hobbyschooluh) February 4, 2025
Patrick has expressed that the complete ban on THC products is one of his top priorities.
“Once the facts are out in the open, there is no doubt these public polling numbers will rise as more Texans demand a ban on these dangerous THC products,” Patrick said on X.
Yet the poll found that 69% of those polled were in favor of decriminalizing marijuana and even more supported medicinal use of cannabis.
"Even though Texas is a conservative state ... folks want the flexibility of being able to gamble or partake in marijuana," Cross said.
