Texas House Advances Major Expansion of Medical Cannabis Access Under HB 46

The Texas House of Representatives has approved House Bill 46 (HB 46), a
comprehensive measure aimed at significantly expanding the state’s
Compassionate Use Program (TCUP). Introduced by Rep. Ken King (R-Canadian),
the bill seeks to broaden patient eligibility, diversify product forms, and
enhance dispensary access across Texas.
*Key Provisions of HB 46*

*Expanded Qualifying Conditions*

HB 46 proposes to add several medical conditions to the list of those
eligible for medical cannabis treatment, including:

- Chronic pain
- Glaucoma
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal neuropathy
- Crohn’s disease and other inflammatory bowel diseases
- Degenerative disc disease
- Terminal illnesses requiring hospice or palliative care

Additionally, the bill grants the Texas Department of State Health Services
(DSHS) the authority to add qualifying conditions at its discretion.

*Veteran Access*

Under HB 46, honorably discharged veterans would be eligible to use medical
cannabis for any medical condition, recognizing the unique healthcare needs
of this population.

*Diversified Product Forms*

The legislation allows for a broader range of cannabis product forms,
including:

- Patches
- Lotions
- Suppositories
- Inhalers
- Nebulizers
- Vaping devices

This expansion aims to provide patients with more options tailored to their
medical needs.

*Increased Dispensary Access*

To improve accessibility, HB 46 mandates the Texas Department of Public
Safety (DPS) to issue 11 dispensing licenses, ensuring at least one in each
of the state’s public health regions. It also permits licensed dispensaries
to establish satellite locations with state approval, addressing the
current limitations in patient access.
*Legislative Context and Outlook*

HB 46 represents the most significant overhaul of Texas’s medical cannabis
program since its inception in 2015. The bill’s passage in the House
reflects a growing bipartisan consensus on the need to modernize and expand
TCUP to better serve patients across the state. The legislation now moves
to the Senate for consideration.

The post Texas House Advances Major Expansion of Medical Cannabis Access
Under HB 46 appeared first on Merry Jane.