House Bill No. 2972 amends Section 169.003 of the Occupations Code to expand the conditions under which physicians can prescribe low-THC cannabis to patients. The bill specifies that physicians may prescribe low-THC cannabis if the patient is a permanent resident of Texas, the physician meets registration requirements, and the physician certifies that the patient has been diagnosed with certain medical conditions. Notably, the bill adds new conditions, including those that cause menstrual cramps, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder or dysmenorrhea, and allows for the prescription of low-THC cannabis for medical conditions approved for research programs under the Health and Safety Code.

The bill also removes the previous provision that allowed prescriptions only for post-traumatic stress disorder, thereby broadening the scope of eligible conditions. This legislative change aims to provide patients with more options for treatment using low-THC cannabis, reflecting a growing recognition of its potential benefits for various medical issues. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 169.003 (Occupations Code 169)