Texas just took a major step forward in cannabis reform. Governor Greg Abbott has signed House Bill 46 into law, bringing long-awaited updates to the state’s medical marijuana program. The law expands access under the Compassionate Use Program (CUP), giving more patients legal options for cannabis treatment. With more qualifying conditions, more dispensaries, and more product options, this marks real progress for patients across the state.
What’s New in Texas’s Medical Marijuana Law?
House Bill 46 makes several key changes to how medical marijuana is handled in Texas. One of the biggest updates is the expanded list of qualifying conditions. Chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, traumatic brain injury, and terminal illnesses are now eligible for treatment with medical cannabis.
Access is also improving on a practical level. The number of licensed dispensaries is increasing from three to fifteen. That’s a major win for patients in rural areas who previously had few or no nearby options.
Product variety is expanding too. Before, patients were limited to low-THC oils. Now, the law allows other forms like patches, lotions, suppositories, inhalers, and vaporizers. This gives patients and doctors more choices in how to manage symptoms.
The law also raises the THC cap to 10 milligrams per dose. While still relatively conservative compared to other states, it gives doctors more flexibility in prescribing effective dosages.
Prescriptions are also valid for longer. Instead of monthly renewals, doctors can now approve a 90-day supply, reducing how often patients need follow-up visits.
These changes officially take effect on September 1, 2025.
BBB approved — legit and reliable.
Who Qualifies for Medical Marijuana in Texas Now?
With the new law in place, more Texans will be eligible for cannabis treatment. In addition to long-standing conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and cancer, patients with chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury now qualify as well.
The list also includes ALS, autism spectrum disorder, seizure disorders, incurable neurodegenerative diseases, neuropathy, spasticity, and patients receiving hospice care.
To qualify, a person must be a permanent Texas resident. They also need a prescription from a physician who is registered with the state’s Compassionate Use Program.
How the New Law Improves Patient Access
This update removes some of the biggest barriers Texans have faced when trying to access medical cannabis. The addition of chronic pain alone opens the door for thousands of new patients who had no options under the previous law.
The increase in dispensaries means patients will spend less time traveling to fill a prescription. That can make a big difference for people with mobility issues or those living in rural counties.
More product forms also allow patients to find what works best for their condition. Someone who can’t tolerate oils might find relief from a patch or an inhaler. Having options matters in medical treatment.
The longer prescription supply also means fewer doctor visits. That saves time, reduces costs, and makes the program more manageable for people with chronic conditions.
What This Means for Texans Seeking Medical Cannabis
This law represents a shift in how Texas approaches cannabis as medicine. For a long time, the program was so limited that many patients gave up on trying to qualify. Others turned to unregulated alternatives or traveled out of state for treatment.
Now, with more conditions recognized and better access across the board, the Compassionate Use Program is finally starting to meet the needs of real patients. It’s not a perfect system yet, but it’s moving in the right direction.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Prescription in Texas
If you’re thinking about trying medical marijuana under the new law, the process is pretty straightforward.
First, check if your medical condition qualifies. If it does, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with a physician who is registered with the Compassionate Use Program. This can often be done online.
If the physician decides cannabis is appropriate for your condition, they’ll add your prescription to the state’s Compassionate Use Registry of Texas, also known as CURT.
You don’t need a physical card. Once you’re in the system, you can fill your prescription at any licensed dispensary in Texas.
Conclusion
Texas has opened the door wider for medical cannabis treatment with the passage of House Bill 46. More people qualify. More dispensaries are on the way. More product types are allowed. For Texans dealing with serious health conditions, this law brings more than just a policy change; it also brings the chance for a better quality of life. As the updates roll out later this year, patients and providers will finally have more options and fewer hurdles.
Want to Find Out if Medical Marijuana is Right for You?
With the new law expanding access in Texas, now’s a great time to take the first step. Elevate Holistics makes the process simple with secure, online appointments and doctors who are registered with the state’s Compassionate Use Program. No long waits, no complicated paperwork, we’re people who know the system and are willing to help patients like you. Book your appointment today and see if you qualify.
