Texas lawmakers have refiled a pair of bills that would legalize marijuana for adults 21 and older, renewing efforts as part of a new special session.
In the House, Representative Jessica González (D) introduced House Bill 169 on Friday, the same day as the start of the new special session. The proposal mirrors her previous bill by allowing for the possession of up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana and 15 grams of concentrates. Individuals could store up to 10 ounces at home, though anything beyond 2.5 ounces would need to be kept in a locked container. The measure also allows adults to gift marijuana within those limits, provided no money changes hands.
HB 169 was formally referred today to the House Public Health Committee. Under the bill, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation would oversee licensing for cultivation, manufacturing, testing, transportation, and retail sales. The agency would be required to begin issuing licenses by November 1, 2026. Revenue from taxes and fees would be split between regulators, public safety labs, local governments hosting cannabis businesses, and the state’s Foundation School Program.
Meanwhile, Senate Bill 31 has been filed in the upper chamber by Senators Nathan Johnson (D), Carol Alvarado (D), Molly Cook (D), Roland Gutierrez (D), Cesar Blanco (D), Sarah Eckhardt (D), Jose Menendez (D), and Borris Miles (D). The measure includes a comprehensive framework covering cultivation, manufacturing, retail, and taxation, while also creating a path to expunge certain past marijuana convictions. SB 31 has not yet been assigned to a committee.
The renewed push in both chambers comes as lawmakers are also weighing Senate Bill 6, a separate proposal to ban hemp-derived THC products. That measure is expected to receive a vote today by the full Senate.
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