More Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Could Be Coming to Texas

For years, Texas has had one of the most restrictive medical marijuana programs in the country. Patients often struggle with limited access, few product options, and a very small number of dispensaries. That reality may soon be changing, thanks to new legislation that expands patient eligibility, product availability, and the number of licensed dispensaries allowed to operate in the state.

The Current Status of Medical Marijuana in Texas

The Texas Compassionate Use Program began in 2015 and has grown gradually over the years. Originally, the program only allowed low-THC marijuana for patients with epilepsy. Over time, lawmakers added more qualifying conditions, such as PTSD and cancer.

Even with these expansions, the program has remained limited compared to other states. Patients are restricted to products like tinctures, gummies, lozenges, and beverages, while smoking and vaping are prohibited. To make matters more difficult, only three licensed medical marijuana dispensaries currently serve the entire state. This lack of availability has left many patients without practical access to the medicine they need.

A Major Step Forward: House Bill 46

In June 2025, Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 46 into law, marking the biggest update to Texas’ medical marijuana program to date. The new law takes effect on September 1, 2025, and brings major changes for both patients and providers.

Expanded Conditions

Patients with chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, traumatic brain injuries, and terminal illnesses, including those receiving hospice or palliative care, will now qualify for medical marijuana. This is a significant expansion that will allow thousands more Texans to access treatment.

New Product Options

For the first time, the law will allow more variety in how patients can take their medicine. In addition to edibles and tinctures, products such as patches, lotions, suppositories, and inhalers. Vaporizers will now be available if they’re approved by a physician.

Increased THC Limits

The current limit of 1% THC by weight is one of the strictest in the nation. Under the new law, patients will be able to receive up to 10 milligrams of THC per dose, with a maximum of 1 gram per package. This change gives doctors greater flexibility in prescribing effective treatments.

Want more details about how the program works? Be sure to check out our FAQ page to learn more.

More Dispensaries on the Way

Perhaps the most exciting update is the expansion of dispensary licenses. Until now, Texas has only allowed 3 licensed dispensaries to operate. House Bill 46 increases that number to up to 15, creating far more opportunities for patient access.

The state will issue these new licenses in stages:

• Nine dispensary licenses will be awarded later this year, chosen from applications already on file.

• A second round of applications will open through September 2025, with additional licenses awarded in April 2026.

In addition, dispensaries will now be allowed to operate satellite pickup locations. This means patients may soon have much shorter travel times to receive their medicine.

What This Means for Texas Patients

The expansion of the Compassionate Use Program represents real progress for Texas patients. With more qualifying conditions, better product options, and a larger number of dispensaries, access to medical marijuana will finally become more practical and patient-friendly.

For patients who qualify, now is the time to start the process of getting a medical marijuana card. You can reserve an appointment with us today! We will connect you with one of our compassionate doctors the second we start seeing patients. 

With new dispensaries preparing to open and expanded product availability beginning this fall, Texans will have more options than ever before.

The Bottom Line

Texas’ medical marijuana program is entering a new era. The passing of House Bill 46 marks a turning point, bringing more access, treatment choices, and dispensaries across the state. While the program remains medical-only, these changes are an important step toward making sure patients can actually benefit from the relief marijuana provides.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana in Texas

Although Texas has a medical marijuana program in place, it's restrictive and doesn't fully meet the needs of Texas patients. However, there is good news. A comprehensive medical marijuana program is coming to Texas soon!

One of the first ways to benefit from this program is to be prepared to secure your marijuana prescription. You can reserve an appointment with one of our qualified physicians. Once we start seeing patients, you’ll meet with our doctor, who will evaluate your qualifying condition and provide you with a marijuana prescription.

Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our qualified, compassionate doctors. Once we start seeing patients, you’ll meet with your doctor virtually using your smartphone or computer for a telemedicine appointment. Together, you’ll discuss your qualifying condition and how you might benefit from medical marijuana, all without leaving your home.