Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1233

Caption

Relating to prescribing low-THC cannabis under the Texas Compassionate Use Program.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1233 would streamline the process for prescribing low-THC cannabis, making it more accessible for patients with qualifying medical conditions who are permanent residents of Texas. The amendments aim to clarify the qualifications required of physicians, potentially leading to an increase in the number of healthcare providers able to prescribe low-THC cannabis legally. This could have significant implications for healthcare access, patient treatment options, and the overall landscape of medical cannabis use in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 1233 is designed to amend the Texas Compassionate Use Program, specifically focusing on the prescription of low-THC cannabis by qualified physicians. The bill outlines the criteria that a physician must meet to be eligible to prescribe low-THC cannabis to patients diagnosed with certain medical conditions. These conditions include epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, terminal cancer, and others, ensuring that the prescribing physician is not only licensed but also board-certified in a relevant medical specialty and dedicates significant clinical practice to treating the patient's condition.

Contention

Notably, while the bill is expected to facilitate better access to medical cannabis for patients, it may also spark debate regarding the breadth of conditions under which low-THC cannabis can be prescribed. Some stakeholders may argue that the list of medical conditions is too limited, thus preventing patients with other serious conditions from benefiting from cannabis treatment. Moreover, concerns may arise about the regulation and qualification of physicians, emphasizing the need for stringent oversight to ensure patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 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.