Joe Pool
Dripping Springs, Texas

June 3, 2025

To All Texans

As a concerned Texan and as a victim of Multiple Sclerosis since I attended law school, I have concerns about Senate Bill 3 (“SB 3”).  This Legislation unnecessarily regulates liberty, prevents access to effective medical treatments and denies pain relief for many veterans and other Texans. SB 3 aims to ban all consumable hemp-derived THC products, including Delta-8, which has been legally sold and regulated in Texas for the past few years.

Five Concerns Regarding SB 3:

1. Economic: The hemp industry in Texas supports over 8,500 businesses and contributes significantly to the state’s economy. SB 3 will dismantle this commerce, leading to job losses and economic downturns in communities reliant on hemp-related commerce.

2. Public Health Risks: By pushing THC products into the black market, we risk exposing consumers to unregulated and potentially dangerous substances.

3. Veterans’ Access to Relief: Many veterans rely on hemp-derived THC products for pain management and PTSD relief. SB 3 limits their access to affordable and effective treatments, disregarding the sacrifices they’ve made for our country.

4. Judicial Overload: The criminalization of these products will burden our already strained legal system, diverting resources from more pressing issues and leading to more incarcerations.

5. Disregard for We The People: Surveys indicate that a significant majority of Texans support regulated access to hemp-derived THC products. SB 3 ignores We The People.

I believe SB 3 is legislation that opposes the family values of most Texans and upends Making America Healthy Again. It is imperative that we listen to We The People and prioritize policies that satisfy our needs and uphold our democratic principles.

Governor Abbott, please consider SB 3 for exercise of your veto power.

Sincerely,

Joe Pool