Stop SB 3: Don’t Hand Texas to Cartels

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s THC ban kills jobs, kills revenue, and invites cartels to take over. Sign to tell the Texas House to vote NO on SB 3.

50,000 jobs gone. $8 billion industry destroyed. Cartels will sell fentanyl-laced weed to your kids.

Introduction

This petition outlines reasons to oppose Senate Bill 3 (SB 3) in Texas, focusing on the economic, social, and historical impacts of banning THC sales. It aims to persuade the Texas House to vote "no" on SB 3, highlighting that such a ban won't reduce demand, will burn tax money, and echoes past prohibition failures rooted in misinformation.

Why Banning THC Sales Won't Stop Demand

Banning THC sales is unlikely to reduce demand; instead, it will push consumers to illegal markets, potentially increasing cartel activity. Studies, like those from the Cato Institute, show that legalizing and regulating cannabis reduces illegal trade, suggesting that prohibition could reverse this, making streets less safe and products less regulated.

Economic Costs of SB 3

SB 3 could cost Texas dearly, with the hemp industry worth $8 billion and employing 50,000 people at risk. The state might lose $13 million in tax revenue in 2026 alone, per the Legislative Budget Board, while enforcement costs could rise, straining public funds further. This economic hit could affect jobs and state services, making the ban a financial burden.

Historical Context: Propaganda and Prohibition

Marijuana prohibition began with misleading campaigns, notably by William Randolph Hearst and Harry Anslinger, using racially charged "fake news" to criminalize it. This history shows prohibition often fails, leading to increased crime and inequality, a lesson SB 3 risks repeating.

Conclusion

Sign this petition to urge the Texas House to reject SB 3, protecting Texas's economy, safety, and lessons from history. Share it widely to amplify our voice against this shortsighted bill.