State Rep. Eddie Morales Urges Gov. Abbott to Veto Texas THC Ban; Deadline Today

Eddie Martinez
Jun 22
2 min read

Updated: Jun 24

Representative Eddie Morales at the Texas Capitol. Source: Texas.Gov

Update: As of June 24, 2025, Governer Abbot has vetoed SB3, and called for a special legislative session, where the focus is expected to be establishing regulations for the hemp industry rather than an outright ban.

Rep. Eddie Morales responded to the Governor’s decision to veto on social media saying,

“Governer Abbott made the right decision […] I am proud to see the voices of millions of Texans were heard […] I look forward to the chance for a special session in July to make and support common sense policy solutions to protect the health and safety of children, while supporting the freedom of adults to have access to these products.

You can read his full response on Facebook.

Original story: Published June 22, 2025

On Juneteenth, State Representative for Del Rio, Eddie Morales, sent a letter to the office of Governor Greg Abbott that explains why Morales believes enacting the Senate Bill attempting to ban the selling of THC products in Texas, or SB3, would harm those living within his District 74 in Texas. District 74 spans from Eagle Pass to El Paso, covers 11 counties, and is home to 203,000 Texans as of 2020.

The proposed law would ban and criminalize most THC products in the state, including vapes and gummies, which provide similar psychoactive effects to marijuana. The ban is expected go into effect in September after both chambers approve the legislation --- unless the Governor vetoes.

The deadline to act on SB3 is Sunday June 22nd. If the Governor does not act, the bill automatically becomes law.

In his open letter, Representative Morales cites "job loss" and the undoing of "diversifying local economies" as reasons the ban would detriment constituents economically. "Economic setback is a real concern for our region," Morales writes.

He also cites chronic pain relief and relief from mental health challenges as positive and desirable effects of THC use, and therefore additional reason to veto SB3 on the Governor’s part. Rep. Morales describes THC products as "a ray of hope for those in need."

Rep. Morales concludes his letter:

"I respectfully urge that you veto SB3 and encourage the Legislature to return with a more measured approach, one that protects public health, supports small businesses, and reflects the real needs of Texans."