The Senate Committee on State Affairs took public testimony on Senate Bill 6, a measure aimed at restricting certain consumable hemp and THC products and creating a regulatory framework. Speakers at the hearing included patients who said THC products were medically necessary, small‑business owners, and advocates for decriminalization.

Why it matters: The bill would reshape the legal market for cannabinoid products in Texas—affecting businesses, patients who use THC for medical reasons, and criminal penalties for possession.

What witnesses said: Several patients described personal medical benefits from THC. Emily Gogol said, “THC saved my life,” and urged lawmakers to ensure access for people whose chronic pain is not relieved by CBD alone. Elizabeth Miller, who said she relies on cannabinoids to manage seizures and a connective tissue condition, asked the committee to consider the cost and access barriers in the state’s Compassionate Use program.

Small‑business and liberty advocates urged regulation rather than prohibition. Melody Tramalo, who represented herself, supported testing and child‑resistant packaging but criticized limits that would exclude THC and said production and distribution rules should not favor large corporations. Opponents of restrictive drafts argued the legislation as written would criminalize many hemp products and harm a growing industry.

Action taken: The committee reported SB 6 favorably to the full Senate (committee roll recorded as 9 ayes, 0 nays). Witnesses urged lawmakers to adopt regulatory approaches—mandatory testing, labelling and age limits—rather than broad bans that could push the market back into illicit channels.

Next steps: The bill will go to the full Senate for consideration. Advocates said they will press for provisions that preserve medical access, protect small businesses, and avoid expanding penalties that generate criminal records for possession.