As the clock ticks down toward a June 22 deadline, the fate of one of Texas' most controversial pieces of legislation—Senate Bill 3 (SB 3)—hangs in the balance. The bill, which would ban the manufacture, possession, and sale of many consumable THC products derived from hemp, has ignited a rare bipartisan backlash among voters and sparked fierce political debate during the 89th Legislative Session.
Governor Greg Abbott now stands at the center of this storm, with just days left to sign, veto, or allow the bill to become law without action. But if the latest polling is any indication, SB 3 may be sailing against a strong headwind of public opposition.
A Divisive Bill with Broad Implications
SB 3’s journey through the legislature has been anything but smooth. Initially drafted to restrict a wide range of THC-containing consumables—including popular products like THC-infused gummies and seltzers—the bill has been rewritten and revised multiple times. Lawmakers debated issues such as age limits, labeling, and the types of THC that would be banned.
The final version attempts a compromise, allowing products that contain non-psychoactive cannabinoids such as CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) to remain legal, while banning consumables with psychoactive THC content. Still, many argue that the legislation is overly broad and could damage Texas’ growing hemp industry—an industry that blossomed in the wake of the 2018 federal Farm Bill and Texas' own legalization of hemp in 2019.
What Texans Are Saying: A Rare Point of Unity
Polling conducted by Fabrizio, Lee & Associates—a firm with strong ties to Republican politics—reveals that a clear majority of Texans oppose SB 3. Sixty-one percent of survey respondents said they do not want Governor Abbott to sign the bill. Perhaps more telling is how that opposition crosses political lines:
44% of Republicans
66% of Independents
80% of Democrats
In a state often split along party lines, those numbers are significant.
The survey also shows that 57% of those who are aware of the bill report feeling less favorable toward the Texas Legislature because of it—suggesting that the political fallout could be substantial, especially for lawmakers in swing districts or facing reelection.
Only 16% of voters said they want a complete ban on hemp-derived THC products.
Common-Sense Regulation, Not Prohibition
One reason for the public backlash is that most Texans don’t want prohibition—they want regulation. When voters were asked whether hemp-derived THC should remain available as an alternative to alcohol, provided it’s strictly regulated with age restrictions and warning labels, the answer was a resounding yes:
59% of Republicans
73% of Independents
83% of Democrats
These numbers reflect a broader trend nationally, where adult-use cannabis and THC-derived products are increasingly viewed not as public threats, but as manageable substances—especially when paired with common-sense regulation.
Political Risks for Republicans
The Fabrizio poll includes a stark warning: 41% of respondents say they are less likely to vote for a legislator who supports an outright ban on hemp-based THC products. That’s not a marginal number—it’s potentially election-shaping.
The polling firm concluded bluntly that SB 3 "hurts the Republican brand with voters, and creates electoral vulnerabilities." While Republicans currently hold the majority in Texas, the margin of victory in many districts is narrowing. A bill like this, seen by many as government overreach, could become a rallying point for opponents in 2026 and beyond.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick vs. Public Sentiment
Despite the polling, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has remained a vocal proponent of SB 3, citing concerns over minors accessing THC products and stores operating near schools. He has held press conferences and repeatedly pressed the public safety argument.
However, another poll—this one from Baselice & Associates, a firm that often works with Patrick—found that 68% of voters support keeping THC products legal with strict regulations. Even data from Patrick’s own preferred polling partner contradicts the legislative push.
Abbott’s Calculated Silence
Governor Abbott has yet to tip his hand. Speaking to reporters recently, he acknowledged there are “meaningful positions and concerns on both sides of the issue.” That measured tone may reflect the complexity of the situation—and the risk of alienating voters no matter what he decides.
He now has until Sunday, June 22 to act: sign the bill, veto it, or let it become law without his signature.
The Bottom Line
SB 3 represents more than just a debate over cannabis policy. It’s a test of political leadership, public accountability, and how closely lawmakers are willing to listen to the constituents they serve. With strong opposition across party lines, and clear public preference for regulation over prohibition, the pressure on Governor Abbott is mounting.
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