S.B. 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 flexibility of not needing an additional license for satellite locations if they are included in the original application or approved separately. The bill also establishes that a dispensing organization must begin operations within 24 months of receiving a license and maintain continuous dispensing of low-THC cannabis. Additionally, it limits the amount of tetrahydrocannabinols in a package to 300 milligrams and prohibits local governments from enacting regulations that would restrict the cultivation, production, storage, dispensing, or possession of low-THC cannabis.

Further amendments include the definition of low-THC cannabis, which is now specified to contain no more than five milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinols per dosage unit, and the introduction of new methods of administration, such as pulmonary inhalation, under certain medical circumstances. Physicians are required to prescribe a 90-day supply of low-THC cannabis, and the bill mandates the adoption of rules by relevant health authorities to ensure compliance and safety in the administration of low-THC cannabis. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, with specific rules to be implemented by October 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 (Occupations Code 169, Health and Safety Code 487)
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 (Occupations Code 169, Health and Safety Code 487)