Texas Cannabis Policy Conference 2026

As the Lone Star State edges closer to pivotal debates on cannabis reform, one event aims to ensure that Texas stays informed, engaged, and ready for change. The Texas Cannabis Policy Conference, hosted by the Texas Cannabis Policy Center, will take place January 29–31, 2026, at the Thompson Conference Center on the University of Texas at Austin campus.

This year’s theme, “Maintaining Momentum for Effective Cannabis Policy,” reflects both optimism and urgency. According to Heather Fazio, the Center’s Director and lead organizer, the conference was founded “to fill a gap in serious, policy-focused dialogue around cannabis in Texas.”

Since its start in 2018, the conference has evolved from a small academic gathering into one of the state’s most respected forums for professional, nonpartisan discussion of cannabis and hemp policy. After a few years at Texas A&M, the event is returning to Austin — a fitting move as Texas lawmakers, regulators, and advocates gear up for what could be a defining legislative session.

A Policy Conference with Purpose

Unlike consumer expos or trade shows, this conference focuses on education, ethics, and evidence. Its mission: to promote responsible regulation, civic engagement, and informed public policy.

Over three days, attendees will dive deep into the most pressing issues shaping the future of cannabis in Texas — from medical access and patient protections to hemp regulation, public safety, compliance, and innovation.

Key discussion tracks include:

• Medical Cannabis: Expanding patient access within the Texas Compassionate Use Program.
• Public Health & Safety: Preventing youth access and ensuring product integrity.
• Industry Accountability: Raising standards in testing, labeling, and transparency.
• Hemp Regulation: Clarifying enforcement and refining production standards.
• Research & Innovation: Exploring new frontiers in medicine, agriculture, and technology.
• Advocacy & Civic Engagement: Preparing for the 2026 elections and 2027 legislative session.

Bridging Policymakers, Professionals, and Patients

The conference attracts an unusually diverse crowd — policymakers, attorneys, doctors, regulators, veterans, entrepreneurs, and students — about 200 attendees in total. The result is a rare space where science meets policy, and advocacy meets accountability.

Panels are deliberately designed to blend perspectives, bringing together voices from law enforcement, healthcare, academia, agriculture, and patient communities. “We want balanced, well-rounded discussions — not echo chambers,” Fazio notes.

Networking is another highlight. Between sessions, participants can connect in the Sponsor Lounge, at the Welcome Reception, or in smaller breakout groups focused on collaboration and investment.

No Hype, Just Progress

Unlike many industry events, this one won’t feature product competitions or sampling. The focus is squarely on policy and professionalism. However, a few advocacy awards will recognize individuals and organizations driving meaningful change across Texas.

The conference also underscores the economic and agricultural potential of hemp and cannabis in Texas. Discussions will explore how recent legislation — including House Bill 46 — is reshaping local economies and regulatory oversight.

Attendees can also expect sessions on data-driven regulation, cross-sector partnerships, and technological advances in cannabis testing and cultivation — a sign of Texas’s growing interest in evidence-based governance.

Looking Ahead: A Responsible Future for Texas

Organizers envision an even broader role for the conference in the coming years — one that deepens ties with universities, expands compliance training, and keeps Texas at the forefront of thoughtful cannabis policy.

“Texas can chart its own course — grounded in science, ethics, and responsibility,” says Fazio. “This conference is about ensuring we do that together.”

How to Attend the Texas Cannabis Policy Conference

The event is open to the public with registration required at: www.TexasCannabisConference.org.

Students may attend free of charge with general admission registration.

Early-bird registration is now available, and updates can be found on social media at @TxMJPolicy (Instagram, X, Facebook, and LinkedIn).

Whether you’re a medical patient, doctor, farmer, entrepreneur, or simply a Texan curious about the state’s next steps, this conference offers a rare opportunity to witness — and help shape — the future of cannabis policy in Texas.