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Bill

SB 2028

Relating to the criminal and licensing consequences of certain offenses relating to the possession of marihuana, certain tetrahydrocannabinols, certain synthetic cannabinoids, and drug paraphernalia; imposing a fee.

89th Legislature (2025)

SB 2028 reduces criminal penalties and licensing consequences for marijuana and cannabinoid possession in Texas while establishing new associated fees.

Referred to State Affairs
#criminalrecords(s0008) #courts--judges(i0140) #courts--justice(i0110) #courts--municipal(i0100) #crimes--drugs(i0185) #criminalprocedure--general(i0208) #deferredadjudication(s6185) #expunctionofrecords(s0189) #marihuana(s3105) #peaceofficers(s0007) #syntheticcannabinoids(s0718)
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Bill Summary · SB 2028

Legislative bill overview

SB 2028 modifies criminal penalties and licensing consequences for possession of marijuana, certain THC products, synthetic cannabinoids, and drug paraphernalia in Texas. The bill also establishes a new fee structure related to these offenses. The measure is currently in early stages, having been referred to the State Affairs Committee.

Why is this important

Texas marijuana possession laws significantly affect criminal records, employment eligibility, and professional licensing across the state. Changes to these statutes could impact thousands of individuals annually and influence how employers, licensing boards, and the criminal justice system handle cannabis-related offenses. The fee provisions could generate revenue while potentially affecting case processing or diversion programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Penalty reduction vs. law enforcement priorities: Softening criminal consequences may conflict with law enforcement agencies' enforcement strategies and public safety perspectives
  • Licensing consequences scope: Unclear how broadly "licensing consequences" apply—could affect professional licenses (medical, legal, nursing) or driver's licenses, creating disparate impacts across industries
  • Fee allocation and burden: The unspecified fee structure raises questions about who pays, how much, and whether fees create barriers to legal compliance or disproportionately burden lower-income individuals
  • Synthetic cannabinoid coverage: Defining and regulating synthetic cannabinoids is complex as manufacturers continually modify chemical structures to evade existing regulations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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