Texas Medical Marijuana Access Is Expanding: What You Need to Know

On June 21st, Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 46 into law, marking a major milestone for medical marijuana in Texas. This legislation significantly expands the state’s medical marijuana program, making Texas the 40th state to implement a meaningful medical marijuana framework.

For patients across the state, this is welcome news, as the changes bring broader access, more treatment options, and an increase in dispensary locations. Here’s what you need to know about the new law and what it means for you.

What’s New Under HB 46

The new law makes several important updates to the Texas Compassionate Use Program (CUP), addressing long-standing concerns about limited access and restrictive eligibility.

More Qualifying Conditions

Under HB 46, the list of conditions eligible for medical marijuana will be expanded significantly by September 1st. Patients suffering from chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, traumatic brain injuries, and those in hospice or end-of-life care will now be eligible. These additions reflect a growing recognition of marijuana as a legitimate treatment option for a wider range of conditions.

Expanded Product Options

Previously, Texas only allowed low-THC tinctures and topicals. HB 46 permits a wider variety of medical marijuana products, including patches, lotions, suppositories, inhalers, nebulizers, and vaporizer devices. The law also removes the outdated limit of one percent THC by weight, replacing it with a cap of 10 milligrams of THC per dose and a maximum of one gram of THC per package. These changes give patients and physicians more flexibility to tailor treatment plans to individual needs.

More Dispensary Locations

Access has long been a challenge for Texas patients, particularly those in rural areas. The Department of Public Safety will now issue 12 additional licenses, bringing the total number of licensed dispensing organizations in the state to 15. Dispensaries are also now permitted to establish satellite locations, which will make it easier for patients in underserved regions to obtain their medicine. All newly licensed dispensaries are required to become operational within 24 months, ensuring timely improvements to patient access.

What Stays the Same

While HB 46 represents significant progress, some aspects of Texas law remain unchanged. Recreational marijuana remains illegal, and the law does not provide workplace protections for patients. Employers may continue to enforce drug testing policies, and participation in the program does not exempt patients from federal regulations or private workplace rules.

What This Means for Patients and the Industry

The expanded program is expected to have a positive impact on both patients and the state’s economy. Patients will have improved access to medical marijuana, more treatment options, and shorter travel times thanks to the increase in dispensary locations. The expansion is also expected to create new jobs in healthcare, agriculture, and retail as the industry grows to meet the needs of a larger patient population.

Employers and human resources departments should take note of these changes and consider reviewing their drug testing and workplace policies, as more employees may now qualify for medical marijuana use under state law.

When Does It Take Effect?

HB 46 was signed into law on June 21st. The expanded list of conditions and product options takes effect on September 1st. State agencies are expected to finalize additional rules regarding dispensary licensing, satellite locations, and packaging requirements by October 1st. All new dispensaries must be open and operational within two years.

How Texas Marijuana Card Can Help

At Texas Marijuana Card, we are committed to helping patients navigate this new and improved medical marijuana program. Once we open, we will offer physician consultations to determine eligibility, assist with registering in the Compassionate Use Program, and provide guidance on finding licensed dispensaries. Our team will also help educate patients on proper dosing, product selection, and understanding their rights under Texas law.

Our goal is to make the process simple, accessible, and supportive, so every qualifying patient can get the care they need with confidence.

Moving Forward

House Bill 46 represents a significant step forward for medical marijuana access in Texas. Patients can look forward to new treatment options, more dispensaries, and improved availability statewide. While recreational marijuana is still prohibited and workplace challenges remain, this expansion shows clear progress in meeting the needs of Texans seeking alternative medical treatments.

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.