Texas Poll Shows Majority Support for Cannabis Legalization

LOS ANGELES- A statewide poll in Texas has revealed that six out of 10 adults support legalizing cannabis, marking the first time the poll has shown a solid majority. The Texas Lyceum Poll, now in its 18th year, indicates growing bipartisan support for cannabis legalization across traditionally conservative and liberal states.

According to the poll, 60% of adult Texans favor adult-use cannabis, representing a 14% increase from the last survey in 2015. In contrast, 50% of respondents opposed legalization in the previous poll.

Support for cannabis legalization is less pronounced among older adults, Republicans, and self-identified conservatives. Among Texans over 65 and Republicans, 49% support legalization. Among conservatives, 46% are in favor, while 31% oppose cannabis legislation. Notably, 42% of those opposing legalization support decriminalizing possession of small amounts to a citation and fine.

The Texas Lyceum Poll also explored other topics, including politics, religion, housing, and space exploration. Support for expanded casino gambling is also rising, with 57% of Texans in favor.

The Texas Lyceum will host a conference in November titled “Win, Lose or Draw: The Future of Marijuana and Gambling in the Lone Star State” on South Padre Island.

Texas’ unique political landscape plays a significant role in the cannabis debate. The state has voted Republican in every general election since 1976, with demographic shifts contributing to the evolving political climate. In 2020, Donald Trump won Texas by 6.5% over Joe Biden, the narrowest margin since 1996.

Patients in Texas can access low-level THC cannabis through the state’s compassionate use program, established in 2015. The program initially allowed certain physicians to prescribe low-THC products for seizure disorders and multiple sclerosis. In 2021, eligibility expanded to include patients with all forms of PTSD and cancer.

At the city level, decriminalization efforts have faced opposition from state leaders. In February, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed lawsuits against five cities—Austin, San Marcos, Killeen, Elgin, and Denton—for enacting measures that bar police officers from enforcing state cannabis laws. Paxton argued that these policies violate the Texas Local Government Code.

Paxton stated, “I will not stand idly by as cities run by pro-crime extremists deliberately violate Texas law and promote the use of illicit drugs that harm our communities.”

Denton voters approved a decriminalization ordinance in 2022, with 71% in favor. However, some officers and the mayor of Denton have not enforced the ordinance. Currently, possession of up to two ounces of cannabis in most areas of Texas is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. Possession of more than two ounces can lead to up to a year in jail, while possession of more than four ounces is a felony with a mandatory minimum sentence of two years.

Cannabis concentrate possession is considered a felony in Texas, punishable by a minimum $10,000 fine and 180 days in jail. Additionally, cannabis paraphernalia possession can result in a $500 fine.