CPH professor honored by Texas Senate for cannabis research
Dr. Matthew Rossheim, associate professor in UNT Health Fort Worth’s College of Public
Health, continues to trailblaze in his study of intoxicating substances. The College
of Public Health alumnus recently received an official commendation from the Texas
Senate in recognition of his work on derived intoxicating cannabis products, their
marketing and public health impacts. The commendation – signed by Senator Charles
Perry and presented with a Texas state flag and certificate – recognizes Rossheim’s
leadership in public health and substance use prevention. His related work has been
widely cited by policymakers, public health agencies, and community coalitions in
Texas and across the United States.
Much of Rossheim’s work highlights the misleading marketing of cannabis products. Present-day retailers are known to extract cannabidiol from cannabis plants before chemically converting it into tetrahydrocannabinol and other intoxicating cannabinoids. What’s produced is marketed as “hemp,” even though it has the same effects as marijuana. While examining these practices, the associate professor also monitored recent spikes in psychosis, poisonings and hospitalizations – all recent side effects of the retail of intoxicating so-called “hemp” products. His studies, observations, and editorials have helped inform legislative discussions at both the state and federal levels, supporting evidence-based laws that protect public health and safety.
In November 2025, Congress enacted Public Law 119-37, which clarified the federal definition of hemp to clearly exclude intoxicating cannabis products. The legislation reflects growing concern among policymakers about consumer safety and regulatory gaps surrounding intoxicating hemp products. Prior to the law’s passage, Dr. Rossheim educated lawmakers on the public health implications of said products and the need for clearer definitions. Although he was hopeful of and pleased with this federal outcome, the state recognition for this work came as a surprise.
Senator Charles Perry, who authored the commendation, and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick were among state leaders heavily engaged in advancing legislation aimed at closing regulatory gaps in Texas to protect children and families from hazardous intoxicants.
“The federal clarity is an important step,” Rossheim said. “But many states still face challenges related to enforcement capacity. Without effective enforcement, illegal products can continue to reach consumers,” says the CPH professor. Dr. Rossheim has also long served as a scientific advisor for Texans for Safe and Drug Free Youth (TxSDY), a statewide advocacy organization dedicated to protecting youth, families, and communities from substance-related harms.
More recently, Rossheim was invited to brief the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy on his ongoing research related to hemp-derived intoxicants.
“I appreciate the opportunities to engage with national leaders on how public health research can inform federal prevention and enforcement efforts,” Rossheim said.
Health Administration & Health Policy Department Chair Barton Gill says Dr. Rossheim “deserves all the recognition he’s received thus far for his impactful work. He truly exhibits our values of Show Your Fire and Courageous Integrity.”
While recent policy developments mark significant progress, Rossheim emphasizes that his work is far from complete.
“This is just the beginning,” Rossheim said. “Those who are opposed to the new laws are making efforts to overturn at the federal level under the guise that it will negatively impact the economy. The fight is ongoing, and the evidence is clear: the best prevention method for substance misuse is to reduce the retail availability of high-risk intoxicants. The more accessible these products become, the more harm they will cause.”