Speakers and Sessions

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Friday, January 30  |  9:30–10:45am  |  Room: Under the Oaks

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

Friday, January 30  |  11:00am–12:30pm  |  Room 3.122

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.

Friday, January 30  |  11:00am–12:30pm  |  Room 3.110

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: Brett Schuman; Andrea Steel, Esq.; Chelsie Spencer

Moderator: Susan Hays

Friday, January 30  |  11:00am–12:30pm  |  Room: Under the Oaks

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

Friday, January 30  |  12:30–2:15pm  |  Room: Under the Oaks

(Open to All Access Pass Holders)

This keynote luncheon will feature a 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 will cover legislative dynamics, major hearings, and the path of SB 3, including the governor’s veto and subsequent rulemaking. The session will conclude 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

Friday, January 30  |  2:30–3:15pm  |  Room 3.122

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

Friday, January 30  |  2:30–3:15pm  |  Room 3.110

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 will analyze the direct and indirect harms of cannabis criminalization, which have been felt most heavily by Black, Brown, and low-income communities.

Speakers: Chris Harris and Bill Wallace

Moderator: Kirsten Budwine