Texas Medical Marijuana Program Officially Expanded!

Big changes have arrived for patients across Texas. On September 1, 2025, the state officially expanded its Compassionate Use Program, bringing new qualifying conditions into the fold and opening the door for thousands of Texans to legally access medical marijuana. For many patients, this represents long-awaited progress in a state that has historically been very restrictive when it comes to marijuana laws.

Here’s what you need to know about how the program has changed, what’s next for dispensaries, and how the new laws might affect you.

What’s New in the Program?

Before this expansion, Texas had one of the most limited medical marijuana programs in the country. Patients were only eligible if they had conditions such as epilepsy, cancer, PTSD, multiple sclerosis, autism, or a few other severe illnesses. That left many Texans who could potentially benefit from marijuana without legal access.

The previous list of qualifying conditions only included:

• Epilepsy

• A seizure disorder

• Multiple sclerosis

• Spasticity

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

• Autism

• Cancer

• Post-traumatic stress disorder

• An incurable neurodegenerative disease

As of September 1, 2025, the list of qualifying conditions now includes the following in addition to the existing conditions:

• Chronic pain (with no requirement to try opioids first)

• Crohn’s disease

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Traumatic brain injury

• Terminal illness and hospice care

This change is significant for people living with chronic pain. Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek out marijuana for relief, and now Texans finally have the chance to explore this option legally. Patients with serious digestive disorders and those at the end of life will also now have access to the program’s protections and medications.

Public opinion has strongly supported this move. In fact, recent surveys show that more than 90% of patients nationwide believe marijuana is effective for treating chronic pain, with most reporting significant improvements in their quality of life.

Expanding Access Across Texas

More qualifying conditions mean more people will be looking to register for the program, and the state is preparing for that increase. To help meet demand, Texas plans to license and open additional dispensaries. Nine new dispensaries are expected to open and begin serving patients by the end of this year, with more scheduled to open in 2026, taking the total number of dispensaries from 3 to 15.

This is great news for patients outside of major cities. Texans have had to drive hours to the nearest dispensary, creating major barriers to care. With a larger network of dispensaries spread throughout the state, patients in rural and underserved communities will finally have a more convenient way to access their medicine.

It’s important to note that even with more dispensaries, patients can only access dispensaries with a valid medical marijuana card, and they can only purchase products that are specifically approved under the program. In Texas, that means tinctures, oils, capsules, and other measured forms. Smoking marijuana flower and using edible products is still prohibited under state law.

The New Vape Rules

While the medical marijuana program is expanding, Texas has also introduced new restrictions on over-the-counter vape sales. As of September 1, disposable vapes containing THC, CBD, Delta-8, and other cannabinoids can no longer be sold in gas stations, smoke shops, or vape stores.

It’s important to note that this ban applies only to retail vapes sold outside the medical program. Patients with a valid Texas medical marijuana card can still access regulated vape products through licensed medical marijuana dispensaries. These products remain fully legal and available under the state’s Compassionate Use Program.

For retail businesses, however, the penalties are serious. Selling or marketing disposable vapes could result in fines of up to $4,000 or even up to a year in jail. Lawmakers say the goal is to reduce unregulated products that may pose safety risks.

The change has frustrated many consumers who relied on over-the-counter disposables for convenience, but medical marijuana patients remain protected. By staying within the state program, patients can continue to access safe, high-quality vapes along with other approved products. This ban further emphasizes the importance and benefits of having a medical marijuana card in Texas.

A Shifting Legal Landscape

Marijuana laws in Texas are changing quickly, and this year has brought some major developments. Earlier in the summer, lawmakers debated a broad proposal that would have outlawed nearly all THC products, including hemp-derived items. While the bill cleared the Senate, it ultimately stalled in the House and was vetoed by Governor Greg Abbott.

Rather than moving forward with an across-the-board ban, state leaders took a more measured path. The focus shifted to two priorities: expanding medical marijuana access for patients with more qualifying conditions, and tightening restrictions on unregulated retail products like Delta-8 and CBD disposable vapes. This balanced approach opens the door to safer, state-approved options while phasing out products sold outside of the medical program.

Why This Matters for Patients

For patients and families across Texas, the expansion is an important step toward broader access. People who have struggled with chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, or terminal illness can now legally use medical marijuana as part of their treatment plan. This gives patients more options for relief and more control over their own healthcare.

It’s important to remember that the Texas medical marijuana program has specific guidelines. Patients can only purchase state-approved products, like tinctures, oils, capsules, and regulated vapes, through licensed dispensaries, and you’ll need a medical marijuana card to access them. Staying within the program ensures you’re fully protected and getting safe, high-quality products.

Final Thoughts

The Texas medical marijuana program is changing in big ways. With new qualifying conditions, more dispensaries on the way, and a growing recognition of marijuana’s benefits for chronic pain and other illnesses, Texans now have access they never had before.

The expansion of the medical marijuana program represents meaningful progress for patients who now have greater access to safe, regulated treatment options. If you or someone you love may qualify, now is the time to explore the program and see how medical marijuana can make a difference.

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.