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January 29-31 we hosted the Texas Cannabis Policy Conference, a professional gathering of advocates, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry experts. We dove into reform, regulation, business development, and patient protections — with a focus on what's next.

Special thanks to our media sponsor, Maverick PR! Because of their generous support, conference sessions were professionally recorded, ensuring on-demand access to these important conversations.

Speakers and Sessions

Friday, January 30, 2026

Advocacy: Legislative, Regulatory, and Electoral (CLE)

Policy reform doesn’t happen in a vacuum — it’s driven by citizens, veterans, medical professionals, and grassroots leaders. This session brings together experienced advocates to discuss effective organizing, coalition-building, the legislative process, and how Texans can make their voices heard in upcoming elections and legislative sessions.

Speakers: Mitch Fuller; Courtney Holmes, RN, IFNCP; Elizabeth D. Miller

Moderator: Heather Fazio

Cannabis Patient Protections (CLE)

While patients benefit from access to medical cannabis, they still face discrimination in key areas of daily life. This session examines the legal and policy gaps affecting patients’ rights — including employment, child custody, and firearm ownership — and identifies steps Texas can take to ensure equal protection under the law.

Speakers: Jason Kercheval, J.D.; Chase Bearden; and Elizabeth Cross.

Moderator: Holt Major Lackey, J.D.

Status of Lawsuits: Cannabis and the Courts (CLE)

Texas courts are increasingly called to clarify cannabis laws — from local decriminalization to regulatory challenges and product bans. This session reviews recent and pending litigation and examines how the outcomes could reshape the legal and business environment for years to come.

Speakers: Andrea Steel, Esq. and Chelsie Spencer

Moderator: Susan Hays

Safety & Risk: Synthetic, Converted, Natural Cannabinoids

Not all cannabinoids are created equal. This session clarifies the differences between naturally occurring, converted, and synthetic cannabinoids — addressing the science, safety data, and regulatory considerations needed to ensure consumer protection in a rapidly innovating market. This session will also discuss if/when/how these distinctions matter to the government and consumers.

Speakers: Andrea Baillo, PhD; Nick Mortillaro; Lisa Pittman

Moderator: Nishi Whiteley

Keynote Conversation with Rep. Darby and Senator Johnson

This moderated conversation with Rep. Drew Darby and Sen. Nathan Johnson, offering a bipartisan look at the 2025 legislative session and the evolving cannabis policy landscape in Texas. The discussion covers legislative dynamics, major hearings, and the path of SB 3, including the governor’s veto and subsequent rulemaking. The session concludes with a forward-looking discussion on what may be possible in 2027 and how stakeholders can prepare.

Speakers: State Representative Drew Darby (R); State Senator Nathan Johnson (D)

Moderator: Heather Fazio

Cannabis and Public Safety

How can Texas safeguard public safety while embracing evolving cannabis policies? This session examines enforcement priorities and emerging data around impaired driving, youth access, and consumer education — exploring balanced strategies that protect the public through effective regulation and industry integrity.

Speakers: Peter Stout, PhD; W. Clay Abbott; Nishi Whiteley

Moderator: Scott Seder

Direct & Collateral Consequences of Cannabis Criminalization

The impact of Texas' failed War on Drugs continues to be felt today. As the state faces the potential for expanded cannabis prohibition, this panel analyzes the direct and indirect harms of cannabis criminalization, which have been felt most heavily by Black, Brown, and low-income communities.

Speakers: Bill Wallace and Kirsten Budwine

Cannabis in the Workplace (CLE)

This session explores what responsible cannabis policy looks like in the workplace as laws and norms continue to evolve. Holt Major Lackey, J.D. examines the limitations of THC testing, particularly the disconnect between impairment and detection, and the implications for employers and employees—especially in safety-sensitive industries. The discussion considers how workplace liability and risk management frameworks may adapt in the future, modeling constructive, good-faith approaches to policy development

Hemp Regulations, Restrictions, and Enforcement (CLE)

Texas’ hemp industry faces an evolving patchwork of regulations and enforcement priorities. From production and product testing to online sales and consumer access, this session breaks down which agencies oversee what — and how effective regulation can protect consumers while allowing legitimate businesses to thrive.

Speakers: Chelsie Spencer; Andrea Steel, Esq.; Susan Hays, Esq.