As several other states in the nation voted yes to legalize marijuana, could Texas become the next state?
Earlier today, State Senator-elect Roland Gutierrez pre-filed a bill, if passed, legalizing cannabis for medicinal and recreational use in Texas.
Gutierrez said the state would benefit from about a $3.2 billion-state revenue and about 30,000 high-paying jobs.
In a release from Gutierrez, he expects Texas to see a budget shortfall affecting, “all Texans next legislation session, however, I look forward to working with my colleagues to offer a real solution.”
During the upcoming legislative session, Texas is faced with an estimated $4.6 billion deficit. The state’s budget is projected to be about $11.5 billion less than previously projected.
“This bill will generate new revenue and create at least 30,000 high-paying jobs. Our state’s economic future is uncertain and in order to best serve our state, we have to look at cannabis legalization as a solution and not keep going back to the taxpayers and raise their taxes.”
The bill, titled ‘Real Solutions Act,’ would legalize the possession, use and transport of up to 2.5 ounces and allow individuals to own up to 12 plants in their home.
The Real Solutions Act would also allow licensed-retail businesses the ability to sell marijuana and THC-containing products to adults 21 years and older.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 38 other states have legalized marijuana use for either medicinal or recreational purposes.
To read the full Real Solutions Act, click here.
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