The City of Dallas has agreed to temporarily halt enforcement of Proposition R, the voter-approved measure aimed at decriminalizing low-level marijuana possession.
The pause comes in response to a lawsuit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who argues that the local policy violates state law. The city says it will not enforce the ordinance while the legal challenge works its way through the courts. No trial date has been set.
Prop R, which passed with overwhelming support in May, directed Dallas police to stop issuing citations or making arrests for possession of less than four ounces of marijuana—except in cases involving felony charges or violent crimes. The measure also prohibited city funds from being used for THC testing in simple possession cases.
Supporters argue that the policy helps reduce racial disparities in low-level drug enforcement and frees up police resources. But Paxton has called it a “blatant attempt to override state law,” and is seeking a permanent injunction to block it.
Dallas is one of several Texas cities, including Austin, Denton, and Killeen, where voters have approved similar reforms—only to see them challenged by state officials.
City attorneys say they’re cooperating with the legal process and are reviewing next steps.
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