The times are certainly changing here in Texas, and with it comes new attitudes towards cannabis legalization. According to a new University of Texas/Texas Tribune Poll, 60% of Texas voters support the legalization of cannabis for any use. Most supporters favor marijuana use in small amounts at 32%, and about 28% support any amount of cannabis. We see a stark change in support when we compare these results to a poll conducted in 2010, in which just just 42% of voters support legalization for any use.
It’s obvious to many that the legalization of marijuana in Texas will help rectify the adverse effects of prohibition, which is why both Democrat and Republican lawmakers have agreed to work together to put forward bills to change the handling of marijuana. Unfortunately, changes in the substance laws have been a historically difficult task, with many lawmakers defeating the legalization proposals when opposing sides fail to compromise on details.
Luckily, there seems to be gaining traction in the House of Representatives for reforms to marijuana laws, and polls like this one just reaffirm how the people feel. House Speaker Dade Phelan has noted that he believes the House will consider reform measures this year, which could include legalization bills. With more than a dozen pre-filed pieces of cannabis legislation ahead of session, we hope that lawmakers consider the importance of criminal justice reform measures that will help people clear their records of low level charges.
If you’ve been turned away from jobs, housing, licensing, or other applications because of a past marijuana charge, we might be able to help. Our record-clearing software can remove some arrests, charges, and conviction records for a fraction of the cost of a lawyer. Visit www.EasyExpunctions.com to sign up for a free background check to get started.