Texas House Advances Major Expansion of Medical Cannabis Access Under HB 46

The Texas House of Representatives has approved House Bill 46 (HB 46), a comprehensive measure aimed at significantly expanding the state’s Compassionate Use Program (TCUP). Introduced by Rep. Ken King (R-Canadian), the bill seeks to broaden patient eligibility, diversify product forms, and enhance dispensary access across Texas.

Expanded Qualifying Conditions

HB 46 proposes to add several medical conditions to the list of those eligible for medical cannabis treatment, including:

Additionally, the bill grants the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) the authority to add qualifying conditions at its discretion.

Veteran Access

Under HB 46, honorably discharged veterans would be eligible to use medical cannabis for any medical condition, recognizing the unique healthcare needs of this population.

Diversified Product Forms

The legislation allows for a broader range of cannabis product forms, including:

This expansion aims to provide patients with more options tailored to their medical needs.

Increased Dispensary Access

To improve accessibility, HB 46 mandates the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to issue 11 dispensing licenses, ensuring at least one in each of the state’s public health regions. It also permits licensed dispensaries to establish satellite locations with state approval, addressing the current limitations in patient access.

HB 46 represents the most significant overhaul of Texas’s medical cannabis program since its inception in 2015. The bill’s passage in the House reflects a growing bipartisan consensus on the need to modernize and expand TCUP to better serve patients across the state. The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration.