Texas AG Challenges Dallas Marijuana Decriminalization

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued the City of Dallas following the approval of Proposition R, a city charter amendment that decriminalizes possession of up to four ounces of marijuana. Passed by 67% of voters, the measure prohibits Dallas police from making arrests or citations for small marijuana possessions and using its odor as probable cause for searches, except in cases involving violent felonies. Paxton argues the amendment violates state law, which still considers marijuana illegal, and asserts that municipalities cannot selectively enforce state drug laws. Paxton has previously filed similar lawsuits against other Texas cities like Austin and San Marcos for passing comparable decriminalization measures. Despite opposition from some city officials, including Mayor Eric Johnson, who deemed the amendment illegal under state law, Dallas City Council certified the election results and rejected efforts to delay the amendment's enactment.