When you count not falling further behind as a victory, you know you’re in a tough position. All over the country, legislators are easing restrictions on the use or possession of marijuana and THC products.
The rapid changes may lead to confusion and tragedy. Something that is legal in Oklahoma can lead to a felony conviction in Texas. While advocates are also fighting for cannabis reform here in Texas, other people are looking to push us even further down the road of criminalization.
Senate Bill 264
Hemp, which was once illegal across the country, has been legal federally and in Texas for several years. Hemp-derived CBD products are legal, provided they have a low enough concentration of delta-9 THC. The makers of these products have sought to avoid higher delta-9 THC concentrations in several ways, including by creating products that contain delta-8 THC from a laboratory.
Senate Bill 264 attempted to take aim at these lab-created products, basically expanding the current ban to more products. Fortunately, SB 264 died in committee. That means the Texas laws against cannabis and cannabis-related products, which are already among the most restrictive in the country, will not be getting harsher.
No Move Toward Legalization
Public attitudes regarding marijuana have undoubtedly softened in recent years. Many people are shocked to learn about the severity of the penalties for possession of THC oil, cannabis concentrates, and related products. While the general population would likely favor an easing of these restrictions, Texas lawmakers remain committed to the status quo.
A teenager caught with a vape pen containing THC oil residue could be jailed for up to two years. If you are arrested in connection with any of these products, you cannot afford to underestimate the trouble you’re in. While other states may have free-wheeling attitudes and laws to match, Texas law makes THC possession a deadly serious criminal matter.
Medical Marijuana Is Strictly Limited
The Compassionate Use Program (CUP) carefully regulates who has access to medical marijuana and what they can use or possess. It is only available to people with qualifying health conditions. Only a limited number of registered doctors can prescribe the products, and those products are restricted to low THC concentrations. Even if you have one of these conditions and use marijuana to treat it, you are breaking the law if you don’t go through CUP.
The people suffering these conditions may find that the available products don’t meet their needs. If you get the products you need in another state, just know that bringing them back to Texas is a crime, and you can be arrested and charged for your actions.
Strong Marijuana Defense Attorneys in the Fort Worth Area
If you have been arrested for possession of THC oil or cannabis concentrates, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney. Without a lawyer on your side, you will likely find the criminal justice system almost impossible to navigate.
At Lee & Wood, LP, we have the skill to protect your rights with a strong defense. Call us today at 817-678-6771 or contact us online to learn more.