Bill > SB259

This bill establishes a comprehensive medical cannabis program in Texas, creating a legal framework for the possession, use, cultivation, and distribution of medical cannabis for patients. The legislation creates two new chapters in state law: Chapter 487A in the Health and Safety Code, which governs medical cannabis dispensing organizations, and Chapter 169A in the Occupations Code, which outlines physicians' authority to recommend medical cannabis. Key provisions include establishing a secure online medical use registry managed by the Department of Public Safety, creating a licensing system for dispensing organizations, and setting registration requirements for physicians recommending medical cannabis. Physicians can recommend medical cannabis for patients if they determine it is the best available treatment, and must maintain a patient treatment plan monitoring symptoms and potential reactions. The bill also includes protections for patients and parents, such as preventing child protective services from removing children solely because a parent has provided medical cannabis recommended by a physician. Additionally, the legislation sets up regulatory mechanisms for criminal background checks, licensing, and maintaining the integrity of the medical cannabis program, with rules to be fully implemented by January 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB259