Support SB 3 to Protect Our Kids from the Dangerous Deception of Synthetic THC
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by Dr. Matthew Poling, Ashli Poling, Veronica Rios, and Sonia Jimenez
As parents who have lost children or watched them suffer irreversible harm due to synthetic THC products, we are living through a nightmare we never imagined. These substances—marketed with bright colors, playful designs, and names that resemble popular snacks—are not only dangerously deceptive, but they are deliberately designed to trick our children and our teens into thinking they’re harmless. This crisis is hitting too many families in Texas, and we can no longer afford to ignore it.
Synthetic THC is far more potent and dangerous than marijuana, yet it’s sold in ways that make it look like a harmless treat. The packaging often mirrors familiar snacks—chips, gummies, or candy—things our young people are used to seeing every day. This isn’t accidental; it’s a calculated tactic to lure children and teens into believing these products are safe. The truth is, they are not. These chemicals can cause heart attacks, strokes, seizures, and even death.

What makes this even more terrifying is how easy it is for young people to get their hands on these products. They’re sold in gas stations, convenience stores, and even online—places our children visit every day. The flashy packaging makes it easy for a child to grab what looks like a fun snack, unaware of the dangers it holds. The risks are hidden in plain sight, and far too many kids, teens, and young adults have already paid the price. It’s not just about selling a product; it’s about deliberately targeting young people in ways that are hard to recognize until it’s too late.
We’ve seen this firsthand. In our communities, children as young as 12 have tried synthetic THC, only to end up in the hospital, fighting for their lives. Some have suffered permanent brain damage, while others have tragically lost their lives. These heartbreaks didn’t have to happen.
This is why we are so passionate about Senate Bill 3. This bill is a critical step in protecting our children by making these dangerous, deceptive products illegal. More importantly, it will stop the manipulative marketing practices that intentionally target our kids, disguising these chemicals as harmless treats.
We know how devastating it is to watch our children, our teens, and our young adult children suffer because of something that was made to look like candy. This is not just a policy issue—it’s a matter of life and death.
We urge lawmakers to pass SB 3 and protect Texas children and teens from these harmful, manipulative products. We can’t keep waiting for more families to endure the same heartbreak. We need to act now, before more young people are hurt or killed by these toxic chemicals.
For the sake of our children, we must ensure they are no longer targeted by products that prey on their curiosity and trust. We can’t afford to wait any longer. Texas lawmakers, let’s take this step together—for the future of our kids, our families, and our communities.