While the debate over hemp industry-derived THC continues, Texas has taken a significant step forward in its medical marijuana program with the passage of House Bill 46 (HB 46). Signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 22, 2025, HB 46 expands patient access, increases THC limits, and allows more licensed dispensaries across the state. This represents the most significant update to the Compassionate Use Program in years.
The Texas Compassionate Use Program: A Quick Recap
Established in 2015, the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP) allowed the use of low-THC cannabis oil for medical purposes by patients with intractable epilepsy. Over the years, qualifying conditions were expanded to include multiple sclerosis, ALS, terminal illness, autism, and PTSD.
However, the program remained one of the most restrictive in the country. With a 1% THC cap, limited production licenses, and very few satellite locations, many Texans were left without access to medical cannabis.
Key Features of HB 46
House Bill 46, passed in 2025, dramatically reshapes the medical cannabis program landscape in Texas:
- Expanded Qualifying Conditions: HB 46 adds several new conditions, including chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and patients in hospice care.
- Increased THC Limits: The new law raises the per-dose THC limits, allowing for more effective and flexible treatment options.
- New Delivery Methods: Patients will now have access to cannabis via cannabis patches, vaping devices, approved inhalers, lotions, and other medically approved delivery systems like cannabis patches and creams.
- More Dispensaries: The law allows the Department of Public Safety to license up to 15 dispensing organizations, each permitted to open multiple locations throughout Texas, thereby significantly improving patient access to pickup locations.
Governor Abbott’s Role and Support
Gov Abbott, who has traditionally taken a cautious stance on cannabis reform, signed HB 46 into law with bipartisan support. His signature signals a growing recognition that regulated medical cannabis can offer meaningful relief to Texans without inviting the legal risks associated with recreational programs. Here’s a simple version of everything you need to know about House Bill 46 and Senate Bill 3.
What Does This Mean for Patients?
- Greater Access: More conditions eligible means more Texans can now treat conditions with medical cannabis.
- Improved Relief: Increased THC limits make the medicine more effective for degenerative disc disease, spinal neuropathy, and other debilitating conditions.
- Ease of Use: New delivery formats mean patients can use cannabis discreetly and effectively, including pulmonary inhalation.
- Better Coverage: Dispensary expansion ensures that Texans in rural and underserved areas no longer have to drive hours to obtain medication.
A Positive Step Toward Compassionate Care
Texas Compassionate is not yet among the states with full medical, but HB 46 demonstrates a clear policy shift toward patient-centered care. The committee substitute law addresses key gaps in approval, dosing, and geographic availability that have hindered the Texas medical program since its inception.
Industry Impact
The medical cannabis industry in Texas is poised for significant growth. New approval pathways, expanded conditions, and higher THC allowances will attract investment and innovation while providing safer alternatives to opioids and other medications.
With the signing of HB 46, House lawmakers and House members celebrated the move on the House floor, as Senate committee counterparts prepared for conference committee discussions.
These efforts reflect growing unity between the Texas House and Texas Senate to improve public safety and deliver a more comprehensive medical cannabis program under the oversight of the Department of State Health Services.
With efforts from House Bill 46 backers, including advocacy for military veterans and those with other inflammatory bowel diseases, the measure now ensures that more patients can submit fingerprints and be enrolled for medical use.
While smoke shops remain under scrutiny, Texas is now better positioned to serve more patients safely and responsibly. A recent press release from the department highlighted that this legislative progress brings Texas in line with national trends and provides meaningful palliative care to those who need it most.
Access Medical Marijuana in Texas—The Easy Way with DocMJ
Confused by the process of getting a medical marijuana card in Texas? DocMJ offers fast, professional consultations to help you qualify and apply with confidence. Start your journey toward relief—schedule your appointment with us today.
Aaron Bloom, an experienced healthcare attorney, serves as the CEO of DocMJ and Medwell Health and Wellness Centers, where he has overseen the organizations’ mission and growth since 2016. In addition to his leadership roles, Aaron serves on the Board of Directors for Waterfall Bank, bringing his expertise in healthcare, compliance, and strategic growth to the financial services sector.
Aaron’s passion for improving patients’ lives stems from more than 20 years of owning, operating, and representing traditional healthcare organizations. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to finding better ways to relieve suffering and expand access to innovative, patient-centered care. As CEO, Aaron works each day to help patients achieve better health and wellness through the therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis and other evidence-based alternative medicines.