Senate Bill No. 1505 aims to amend the Texas Compassionate-Use Program by introducing new regulations regarding the medical use of low-THC cannabis. Key provisions include the requirement for dispensing organizations to obtain a license from the department to operate, with the added stipulation that they do not need to apply for an additional license for satellite locations if these locations were included in their original application or approved separately. The bill also establishes that a dispensing organization must begin operations within 24 months of receiving their license and maintain continuous dispensing of low-THC cannabis. Additionally, it limits the amount of tetrahydrocannabinols in packaging to a maximum of 300 milligrams.

The bill further clarifies the definition of low-THC cannabis, allowing for a maximum of five milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinols per dosage unit, and expands the means of administration to include pulmonary inhalation, provided that a physician determines it is medically necessary. It also prohibits local governments from enacting regulations that would restrict the cultivation, production, storage, dispensing, or possession of low-THC cannabis. The Department of Public Safety and the Health and Human Services Commission are tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement these changes by October 1, 2025, with the act taking effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 487.101, Health and Safety Code 487.103, Health and Safety Code 487.104, Health and Safety Code 487.107, Health and Safety Code 487.201, Occupations Code 169.001, Occupations Code 169.003 (Health and Safety Code 487, Occupations Code 169)
Senate Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 487.101, Health and Safety Code 487.103, Health and Safety Code 487.104, Health and Safety Code 487.107, Health and Safety Code 487.201, Occupations Code 169.001, Occupations Code 169.003 (Health and Safety Code 487, Occupations Code 169)