Texas joins the majority of the country when it covers the issue of legalizing marijuana. Only four states, including Washington D.C. has legalized this drug, with only five more states proposing the issue on a state ballot.
Some state officials argue that the lone-star state should continue its stance on the drug, while other local opinions support the act.
Texas State Representative Charles Perry’s Spokesman Jordan Berry told KLBK and EverythingLubbock.com that Perry is against the legalization of marijuana in Texas.
State Representative Dustin Burrows also issued a statement to express his opinions against this action.
“I do not support the legalization of marijuana use in Texas. To do so would pose a threat to public health and safety,” Rep Perry said.
However, a local pro-legalization advocate and Hub City NORML Communications Director Jake Syma argues that Texas should at least be discussing reforms in the upcoming legislative session in 2017.
“Honestly, to keep people out of jail who don’t need to be in jail for what they’ve done,” Syma said. “People on the medical front trying to acquire medicine for themselves or a family member or even on the recreational front.”
Syma said Texas could be more cutting edge in their progress for overall reform. However, he added that he predicts the upcoming legislative session will touch on this subject again.
“I expect this upcoming 2017 legislative session to have fewer bills but a lot more thought put into them, a lot more strategy,” Syma said.
