Texas Senate Bill SB170

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, delivery, sale, and research of medical cannabis for medical use by patients with certain medical conditions and the licensing of medical cannabis organizations; authorizing fees.

Impact

The enactment of SB170 would greatly influence Texas law regarding cannabis by formalizing legal avenues for patients to acquire medical cannabis while also establishing criterion under which medical cannabis organizations can operate. It sets out specific licensing requirements for organizations involved in every aspect from cultivation to dispensing of cannabis products. Furthermore, it establishes protections for patients and providers to ensure they are not penalized under existing drug laws when engaging in actions authorized by this act.

Summary

SB170 proposes to authorize the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, delivery, and research of medical cannabis for patients with specific medical conditions in the state of Texas. The bill aims to set forth a regulatory framework for medical cannabis organizations, ensuring that patients who require medical cannabis for treatment have safe and reasonable access under regulated circumstances. This process includes establishing an advisory board to oversee the medical cannabis research program, which is intended to contribute to the understanding and safe application of medical cannabis.

Contention

Opposition to SB170 may arise around concerns regarding the potential for increased cannabis use/dependence and the effectiveness of cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment. Critics might argue that expanding access to cannabis could lead to misuse or societal issues surrounding drug availability. Additionally, some lawmakers may feel that the bill does not sufficiently address safety considerations for patients and communities. Detailed regulatory measures, particularly regarding health and safety standards for cannabis products, will likely be a point of discussion as the bill progresses.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 487. Texas Compassionate-use Act
  • Section: 151
  • Section: 201
  • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

• Chapter 169. Authority To Prescribe Low-thc Cannabis To Certain Patients For Compassionate Use
  • Section: 001
  • Section: New Section

Family Code

• Chapter 161. Termination Of The Parent-child Relationship
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 262. Procedures In Suit By Governmental Entity To Protect Health And Safety Of Child
  • Section: 116