Press Releases

After years of dedicated advocacy by patients and their families, Texas lawmakers have taken a historic step by significantly expanding the state’s medical cannabis program. Governor Greg Abbott signed the bipartisan bill into law on Saturday, marking a new era for patient access in Texas.

“The Governor’s decision significantly expands access to medical cannabis for thousands of Texans living with severe conditions,” said Nico, chair of Texans for Safe Access. “We have worked tirelessly for this day and are eager to implement compassionate policies that prioritize patient care.”

The legislation notably broadens permitted cannabis products, allowing patients to use medically approved inhalers, nebulizers, vaping devices, patches, lotions, and suppositories. This range of options empowers patients and their healthcare providers to tailor treatments more precisely to individual medical needs.

Critically, the law addresses the severe shortage of cannabis dispensaries in Texas, currently limited to just three for the entire state. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) will now expand licenses to 15, which will significantly improve patient access, affordability, and convenience.

For years, Texans living with serious medical conditions have faced the difficult choice of either enduring inadequate treatment or risking criminal penalties. Governor Abbott’s signature finally ends this dilemma, providing legal clarity and much-needed relief for thousands of patients.

Despite this milestone, the future stability of state medical cannabis programs remains uncertain. Congress may soon eliminate vital protections for stakeholders, including patients, caregivers, state employees, cannabis businesses, and landlords, following President Trump’s proposed budget. For the past decade, an annual budget amendment known as the CJS Amendment has prevented the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) from enforcing federal cannabis laws in states with medical cannabis programs. The omission of this crucial protection from the President’s budget puts these safeguards in jeopardy.

"Without these federal protections, patients face renewed uncertainty and potential disruptions to their essential medical treatments," said Steph Sherer, Executive Director of Americans for Safe Access. "It's critical that we reinstate these protections immediately and advocate for comprehensive legislation to ensure lasting security for medical cannabis patients in Texas and nationwide."

Americans for Safe Access is encouraging medical cannabis supporters to reach out to their members of Congress immediately to ensure that protections are extended and Congress moves forward with plans to create a national medical cannabis program this session. Learn more about contacting Congress.