The Texas Battle for Marijuana Legalization
In 2015 the Texas Legislature took baby steps in the right direction by passing the Texas Compassionate Use Act, which legalizes the use of non-euphoric oils derived from cannabis for the treatment of intractable epilepsy. Other than this narrowly-tailored “exemption,” marijuana is still viewed as an evil gateway drug in Texas.
Many of our clients ask us how to help turn Texas “green,” so we’ve created this page to give you information on groups that are making headway in Texas and across the U.S. In our opinion, the best way to combat misinformation is to be well-informed and willing to speak up (in a respectful and courteous way, of course). Please check back regularly, as we will be updating this page.
Where to Get Information and How to Get Involved
Texas Cannabis Report:
A collection of news and original content related to marijuana issues in Texas.
NORML:
“NORML’s mission is to move public opinion sufficiently to legalize the responsible use of marijuana by adults, and to serve as an advocate for consumers to assure they have access to high quality marijuana that is safe, convenient and affordable.” They support legalization: creation of a legally controlled market for marijuana.
DFW NORML:
Our local branch of the national NORML organization. Monthly meetings alternate between Dallas and Fort Worth locations. Cofer Law, P.C. lead attorney Cody Cofer is a member of the DFW NORML Legal Committee.
Texans for Responsible Marijuana Policy:
This group supports informational and lobbying efforts directed towards marijuana decriminalization and medical marijuana legalization in Texas.
Republicans Against Marijuana Prohibition:
“RAMP reforms marijuana laws by working within the GOP to educate and connect with lawmakers, party leadership, and grassroots activists… We support efforts to bring marijuana out of the black-market and into safe, legal, and regulated use by doctors for compassionate medical care and storefronts for adult recreational use.”
Law Enforcement Against Prohibition:
Non-profit organization of current and former law enforcement and criminal justice professionals advocating total elimination of prohibition of all drugs for adults and establishing appropriate regulation and standards for distribution and use.
Marijuana Policy Project:
A national group focused on changing federal law to allow all states to determine their own marijuana policies without federal interference through Federal and State lobbying efforts, educational programs, and funding marijuana-friendly candidates. They have a direct link for Texas-related news and updates. https://www.mpp.org/states/texas/
The Cannabist:
An off-shoot of The Denver Post, The Cannabist offers a journalistic approach to marijuana news in Denver, Colorado that spans the globe. Offerings include news, articles, dispensary maps and even recipes.