A new proposal in the Texas Senate could significantly expand the state’s medical cannabis program, allowing more administration methods and updating how THC doses are measured. If passed, the bill could make medical cannabis more accessible for patients who rely on it for treatment.
Proposed Changes Could Bring New Cannabis Consumption Options
Texas Senate Bill 1505, introduced by Senator Charles Perry, seeks to update the state’s limited medical cannabis program, known as the Compassionate Use Program (CUP). The bill proposes allowing additional consumption methods, including aerosol and vapor administration.
Currently, Texas restricts medical cannabis products to tinctures, lozenges, and gummies with a low-THC content. Expanding the delivery methods would offer more flexibility for patients who have difficulty consuming cannabis in its current forms.
A key change in the bill involves how medical cannabis doses are measured. Instead of determining THC content by weight, the bill proposes shifting to a milligram-based system. This adjustment could improve dosage consistency and pave the way for additional product formulations.
Industry Leaders Voice Support for the Bill
Medical cannabis providers have expressed support for the proposed changes. Nico Richardson, CEO of Texas Original, a licensed medical cannabis provider, highlighted the importance of SB 1505 in a recent statement.
“Senate Bill 1505 proposes crucial improvements to the Compassionate Use Program that will benefit patients throughout the state,” Richardson said. “We are grateful to Senator Charles Perry for his meaningful amendments. These changes will make the program more accessible and bring relief to the patients who rely on it for their medical care.”
Texas has taken a cautious approach to medical cannabis, allowing only low-THC products for specific conditions, including epilepsy, cancer, PTSD, neuropathy, and certain neurodegenerative disorders. Expanding administration methods and updating dosage regulations could be a step toward improving access for qualifying patients.
Public Opinion and Calls for Reform
Texans appear to be growing more supportive of cannabis reform. A poll conducted last month found that:
- Over 60% of Texas residents support legalizing adult-use cannabis.
- 69% support cannabis decriminalization.
- 79% support full-scale medical cannabis legalization.
These numbers suggest a growing demand for broader cannabis policy changes beyond what SB 1505 currently proposes. Despite these strong public opinions, the state’s medical cannabis laws remain among the most restrictive in the country.
Texas Medical Cannabis Program Faces Criticism
A report from the Texas Department of Public Safety last year found that the state’s current medical cannabis program is inadequate. The report pointed out that CUP fails to provide “statewide access” for qualifying patients, despite state law requiring such availability.
Some of the key concerns raised include:
- Limited number of licensed providers, restricting access for patients in rural areas.
- A cumbersome approval process that makes it difficult for physicians to participate in the program.
- Restrictions on THC levels that some medical professionals argue limit the effectiveness of treatment.
While SB 1505 addresses some of these issues, advocates argue that more comprehensive reforms are needed to bring Texas in line with other states that have embraced medical cannabis programs with broader patient access and product options.
What’s Next for the Bill?
The future of SB 1505 remains uncertain. While it has garnered support from industry leaders and patients, Texas lawmakers have historically been slow to adopt cannabis-related reforms. The bill will need to pass committee hearings and floor votes before becoming law.
If approved, the changes could take effect as early as next year, offering patients more treatment options and improving accessibility within the state’s medical cannabis program. For now, advocates continue to push for more reforms, hoping Texas lawmakers will listen to the growing demand for change.