Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1535

Caption

Relating to the medical use of low-THC cannabis by patients with certain medical conditions and the establishment of compassionate-use institutional review boards to evaluate and approve proposed research programs to study the medical use of low-THC cannabis in the treatment of certain patients.

Impact

The bill is expected to enhance the provision of medical treatment options for patients suffering from designated conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and PTSD, among others. It allows for the prescription of low-THC cannabis under stringent guidelines, potentially benefiting patients who have not found relief through traditional medication. The establishment of institutional review boards underscores a commitment to safety, compliance, and thorough examination of the medical use of cannabis. This could lead to significant changes in how the state approaches alternative medicine and patient care.

Summary

House Bill 1535 establishes regulations regarding the medical use of low-THC cannabis by patients diagnosed with specific medical conditions in Texas. It aims to create compassionate-use institutional review boards that will oversee and evaluate approved research programs for the medical application of low-THC cannabis. This legislation expands the framework under which physicians can prescribe low-THC cannabis, ensuring that it is done in a regulated, medically valid manner. The bill is part of a broader initiative to improve patient access to alternative treatments and foster research in the medical-use context.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1535 appears to be largely positive among advocates for medicinal cannabis use and those seeking alternatives to conventional medications. Supporters argue that the bill provides crucial support for patients in need of relief from debilitating conditions, emphasizing compassion and medical oversight. However, there may be some contention among more traditional healthcare providers and legislators who may be cautious about expanding cannabis use due to associated stigma or legal implications.

Contention

Notable points of contention might include concerns regarding the safe messaging and regulations around low-THC cannabis use. Critics may raise apprehensions about the potential for misuse or oversights in patient safety without stringent oversight by licensed healthcare professionals. Additionally, ongoing debates surrounding the overall acceptance of cannabis within the medical community could persist, framing discussions around Bill 1535 as part of a larger dialogue on drug policy and regulation in Texas.

Latest TX HB1535 Activity

View All Events: TX 2021 - 87th Regular HB1535

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1805

Relating to the medical use of low-THC cannabis by patients with certain medical conditions.

TX HB3068

Relating to the medical use of low-THC cannabis by patients with certain medical conditions.

TX SB1747

Relating to the medical use of low-THC cannabis by patients with certain medical conditions.

TX SB2455

Relating to the medical use of low-THC cannabis by patients with certain medical conditions.

TX HB3535

Relating to the medical use of low-THC cannabis by patients with certain medical conditions.

TX SB121

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.

TX HB2995

Relating to the prescribing of medical cannabis for medical use to certain veterans with combat-related injuries or medical conditions and the licensing of dispensing organizations under the Texas Compassionate Use Program.

TX HB1200

Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, transportation, and delivery of medical cannabis for medical use by qualifying patients with certain debilitating medical conditions and the licensing of dispensing organizations and cannabis testing facilities; authorizing fees.

TX SB127

Relating to the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, transportation, and delivery of medical cannabis for use by patients as the best available medical treatment, the licensing of medical cannabis dispensing organizations, and the registration of certain individuals; authorizing fees.

TX HB3620

Relating to repealing certain offenses and removing certain regulations relating to marihuana, cannabis, cannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, and paraphernalia.

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