Bill > SB170

This bill establishes a comprehensive medical cannabis research and use program in Texas, expanding and modernizing the state's existing medical cannabis framework. The legislation creates a Medical Cannabis Research Program with an 11-member advisory board composed of medical professionals, researchers, and patient advocates, who will oversee and guide medical cannabis research. The bill allows for the licensing of various types of medical cannabis organizations, including cultivation, processing, dispensing, and independent testing organizations, with the goal of ensuring reasonable statewide access to medical cannabis. Physicians can recommend medical cannabis for patients with qualifying medical conditions after establishing a bona fide physician-patient relationship and determining that the potential benefits outweigh the risks. The bill provides legal protections for patients, caregivers, medical cannabis organizations, and researchers, ensuring they cannot be arrested, prosecuted, or face professional penalties for authorized medical cannabis activities. Additionally, the legislation establishes strict safety and tracking requirements, including mandatory packaging and labeling standards, an inventory tracking system, and provisions for monitoring the safety and efficacy of medical cannabis products. The program is set to be implemented gradually, with full implementation planned by September 1, 2025, and aims to support patient access, medical research, and a regulated medical cannabis ecosystem in Texas.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB170