Introduction
Before we dive into the laws, let’s define what we mean by medical cannabis. Medical cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, refers to using the cannabis plant or its chemicals to treat a medical condition. It’s important to note that medical cannabis is different from recreational cannabis use.
While some states have fully legalized cannabis for both medical and recreational use, Texas is not one of them. In fact, Texas has historically had some of the strictest cannabis laws in the country. However, the state has made some recent changes to its laws regarding medical cannabis.
The History of Medical Cannabis in Texas
Prior to 2015, cannabis was illegal in all forms in Texas, with no medical exceptions. However, that changed with the passing of the Compassionate Use Act of 2015. This law allowed for the use of low-THC cannabis oil by patients with intractable epilepsy.
In 2019, Texas expanded the Compassionate Use Program to include more qualifying conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and terminal cancer. However, the program still has some limitations, as we’ll discuss in the next section.
While some states have fully legalized cannabis for both medical and recreational use, Texas is not one of them. In fact, Texas has historically had some of the strictest cannabis laws in the country. However, the state has made some recent changes to its laws regarding medical cannabis.
The Compassionate Use Program in Texas
To qualify for is medical cannabis in Texas, a patient must have one of the qualifying conditions as designated by the state. They must also have tried other treatments without success. The patient’s doctor must also recommend medical cannabis as a treatment option.
If a patient meets these criteria, they can apply for a medical cannabis card through the Texas Department of Public Safety. Once approved, the patient can then purchase low-THC cannabis oil from a licensed dispensary in Texas.
The Legality of Medical Cannabis in Texas
While the Compassionate Use Program allows for the use of medical cannabis, it’s important to note that possession of cannabis in any other form is still illegal in Texas. Possession of any amount of cannabis without a medical card can result in fines and even jail time.
However, medical cannabis patients in Texas are protected from prosecution as long as they
meet certain requirements. For example, they must possess a valid medical cannabis card and only possess the amount of cannabis recommended by their doctor.
It’s also important to note that smoking medical cannabis is not allowed in Texas, only the use of low-THC cannabis oil. This means that patients cannot legally smoke cannabis flowers or use other forms of cannabis such as edibles or concentrates.
The Future of Medical Cannabis in Texas
While the Compassionate Use Program is a step in the right direction is medical cannabis in Texas, there is still room for improvement. Many advocates are calling for the expansion of the program to include more conditions and forms of cannabis.
There is also growing public support for medical cannabis in Texas. A recent poll found that 86% of Texans support legalizing medical cannabis, and 60% support legalizing cannabis for recreational use.
In addition to the social benefits, there are also economic benefits to legalizing medical cannabis in Texas. The state could see an increase in tax revenue and job creation if it were to fully legalize cannabis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, medical cannabis is legal in Texas for patients with qualifying conditions under the Compassionate Use Program. While the program has some limitations, it’s a step in the right direction for medical cannabis in the state.
However, there is still room for improvement and potential for future changes to Texas cannabis laws. With growing public support and potential economic benefits, it will be interesting to see how the issue of medical cannabis evolves in Texas in the coming years.
FAQs
What conditions qualify for medical cannabis in Texas? Qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Texas include epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, spasticity, ALS, terminal cancer, autism, and certain types of neurological disorders.
Can I grow my own medical cannabis in Texas? No, growing cannabis in any form is illegal in Texas, even for medical purposes.
How do I apply for a medical cannabis card in Texas? To apply for a medical cannabis card in Texas, you must have a qualifying condition and receive a recommendation from your doctor. You can then apply through the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Is smoking medical cannabis allowed in Texas? No, smoking medical cannabis is not allowed in Texas. Only the use of low-THC cannabis oil is allowed.
What is the penalty for possessing cannabis without a medical card in Texas? Possessing any amount of cannabis without a medical card in Texas can result in fines and jail time, depending on the amount and circumstances.
