A proposal in the Texas Senate seeks to expand access and offerings under the state’s Compassionate Use Program (CUP), a limited medical cannabis program, KVUE reports.
One of the main changes proposed under Senate Bill 1505 would approve new formats for medical cannabis consumption, including the use of aerosol or vapor as a means of administration. Additionally, the bill proposes measuring doses of THC by milligrams instead of by weight, which will also allow for additional delivery methods.
Nico Richardson, CEO of licensed medical cannabis provider Texas Original, said he supports the expansions outlined in SB 1505:
“Senate Bill 1505 proposes crucial improvements to the Compassionate Use Program that will benefit patients throughout the state. We are grateful to Senator Charles Perry for his meaningful amendments. These changes will make the program more accessible and bring relief to the patients who rely on it for their medical care.” — Richardson, in a press release
Texas has legalized low-dose medical cannabis products for state-registered patients with muscle spasticity conditions, neuropathy, PTSD, cancer, epilepsy, and a wide range of neurodegenerative disorders.
Meanwhile, a poll last month found that more than 60% of Texas residents support legalizing adult-use cannabis, and support was even higher for cannabis decriminalization (69%) and comprehensive medical legalization (79%).
Last year, a report by the Texas Department of Public Safety found the state’s medical cannabis program is inadequate and fails to provide “statewide access” for qualifying patients, which is required under state law.
