75% of Texas Voters Back Medical Cannabis Despite Program Confusion

Three-quarters of Texas voters support legalizing medical marijuana, yet most remain unaware their state already operates a limited cannabis program, according to a new poll from Fabrizio, Lee & Associates—the firm that served as chief pollster for President Donald Trump's campaigns.

The survey found 75 percent of Texans favor medical marijuana legalization, a striking figure given that the state's Compassionate Use Program has operated since 2015. The disconnect highlights a persistent gap between public support for cannabis reform and understanding of existing policy.

Texas currently allows low-THC cannabis products (capped at 1% THC) for patients with specific qualifying conditions including epilepsy, autism, PTSD, and terminal cancer. The program has expanded incrementally over the years, most recently adding cancer and PTSD to the qualifying conditions list in 2021. But the poll suggests these changes haven't translated into public awareness.

The Awareness Gap

The polling data underscores a broader challenge facing limited medical cannabis programs across conservative states. Texas's program remains one of the most restrictive in the nation—the 1% THC cap is significantly lower than medical programs in other states, where products can contain up to 90% THC in concentrated forms.

Only three licensed dispensaries currently serve the entire state, compared to dozens or hundreds in states with more robust programs. Patient enrollment numbers have grown slowly, reaching approximately 75,000 registered patients as of late 2024—a fraction of what advocates say reflects actual need in a state of 30 million people.

The Fabrizio, Lee & Associates poll carries particular weight given the firm's Republican credentials. Medical marijuana reform has traditionally drawn bipartisan support, but conservative-leaning polling data could influence Texas legislators who have historically moved cautiously on cannabis policy.

Legislative Momentum

Texas lawmakers have filed multiple bills this session to expand the state's medical program, including proposals to raise the THC cap, add qualifying conditions, and increase dispensary licenses. Similar measures have advanced through committee stages in recent sessions only to stall before final passage.

Yet the political landscape may be shifting. Governor Greg Abbott, previously opposed to cannabis reform, has recently signaled openness to incremental changes. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick remains a significant obstacle, having blocked reform measures in past sessions.

The poll's findings arrive as the Texas legislature convenes for its biennial session, when cannabis reform bills typically see their best chance for advancement. Advocates point to the 75 percent support figure as evidence that lawmakers lag behind constituent preferences.

What's Next

The 2025 legislative session runs through May, with several medical marijuana expansion bills already filed. Key proposals include raising the THC cap to 5% or 10%, adding chronic pain as a qualifying condition, and authorizing smokable cannabis flower—currently prohibited under the program.

Industry observers note that even modest expansions could significantly impact Texas's nascent medical market. The state's size and population make it a potentially lucrative market for multistate operators, though current restrictions have limited investment.

Whether the legislature acts on voter sentiment remains uncertain. Past sessions have seen strong polling support fail to translate into policy change, as leadership priorities and procedural hurdles derailed reform efforts. This session's outcome could signal whether Texas joins the growing number of states embracing medical cannabis or maintains its restrictive approach.

This article is based on original reporting by www.marijuanamoment.net.