Austin, Texas, December 5, 2025
The Texas Department of Public Safety has approved nine companies to join the state’s medical cannabis program, greatly enhancing access to medical-grade THC treatments. With the passing of House Bill 46, the number of licensed providers will increase from three to twelve, improving patient access across Texas. This move also broadens qualifying medical conditions for cannabis use, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of its medicinal benefits and fostering innovation in the healthcare sector.
Austin, Texas – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has granted preliminary approval to nine companies to join the state’s medical cannabis program, significantly expanding access to medical-grade, prescription-only THC treatments for qualified patients. This expansion aims to bolster the fight against restrictive access and ensure that Texas patients have the medications they need without excessive barriers.
With the recent passage of House Bill 46, the number of licensed providers under the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP) will grow from three to twelve. This change also permits the establishment of multiple satellite pickup locations, allowing for greater reach across the state. The burgeoning Texas cannabis market reflects an entrepreneurial spirit that is vital for innovation and accessibility, particularly in the medical field.
Key Approved Companies
The Texas DPS has approved the following companies to participate in the expanded medical cannabis program:
– Verano Texas LLC in the El Paso region
– Trulieve TX Inc. in the Panhandle
– Texas Patient Access LLC in North Texas
– Lonestar Compassionate Care Group LLC in North Texas
– Lone Star Bioscience Inc. in San Antonio and Central Texas
– PC TX OPCO LLC/PharmaCann in the Houston area
– Story of Texas LLC in the Houston area
– Texa OP/TexaRx in the Rio Grande Valley
– Dilatso LLC in North Texas
This move is a testament to the resilience of new startups and the capacity for established entities to adapt to evolving regulations surrounding medical cannabis.
Regulatory Changes and Their Impact
House Bill 46 enhances the scope of the TCUP to include 15 dispensing organizations across Texas, a significant increase from the original three. The law’s framework allows these organizations to expand their services and improve distribution networks, ultimately benefiting patients in rural and underserved areas. Expanding access isn’t just a regulatory change; it signifies a growing acknowledgment of the medicinal value of cannabis in treating various conditions.
As of September 2025, around 127,206 patients, many suffering from chronic illnesses, PTSD, and other qualifying conditions, have registered for the program. The expanded availability is crucial for patients facing challenges in accessing effective care.
Meeting the Demand for More Qualifying Conditions
In tandem with expanding the number of providers, the state is also broadening the list of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis use. Conditions such as chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, and Crohn’s disease will now be recognized as valid reasons for participating in the program. This not only reflects a more comprehensive understanding of medical needs but also empowers patients in their healthcare choices.
Enhancing Patient Choices and Care
The approval of these new companies and the expansion of qualifying conditions is expected to lead to a wider variety of medical cannabis products available for patients. Greater competition among providers will likely contribute to improved product quality and accessibility, aligning with the needs of the growing patient base. The market’s competitiveness encourages innovation within the industry while ensuring that patients can select the best possible treatment options.
A Future of Growth and Opportunity
As we look beyond this expansion, the potential for continued growth in Texas’s medical cannabis sector is promising. The state has long been viewed as one of the more restrictive markets for medical cannabis, but recent legislative shifts indicate a willingness to adapt and evolve. This atmosphere of innovation, combined with a solid foundation of regulatory frameworks, sets the stage for Texas to emerge as a leading contender in the national cannabis conversation.
Increased entrepreneurial activities in the medical cannabis space can stimulate job growth and economic development, especially as new companies integrate into local communities. Supporting these ventures can lead to improved healthcare outcomes for a diverse range of patients.
Conclusion
The Texas Department of Public Safety’s preliminary approval of nine new providers under the TCUP marks not only an increase in accessibility for patients but also an affirmation of Texas’s evolving perspective on medical cannabis. By continuing to support local entrepreneurs, Texas is paving the way for sustainable economic growth that prioritizes patient needs and fosters innovation.
As the cannabis market in Texas continues to expand, residents and policymakers alike are encouraged to remain engaged in discussions around this important topic. Supporting local businesses and advocating for sensible regulations can contribute to an economic landscape that benefits everyone.
FAQ
How many companies have received preliminary approval for the Texas medical cannabis program?
Nine companies have received preliminary approval to join the state’s medical cannabis program.
What does House Bill 46 allow for the Texas Compassionate Use Program?
House Bill 46 allows for up to 15 dispensing organizations statewide and permits the opening of multiple satellite pickup locations pending approval from the Department of Public Safety.
What new qualifying conditions have been added to the Texas medical cannabis program?
The expansion includes new qualifying conditions such as chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, and Crohn’s disease.
What impact will the expansion of the program have on patient access?
The expansion aims to improve patient access to medical cannabis across Texas by addressing geographic barriers and increasing the availability of medical-grade THC treatments.
How many patients were registered for the Texas Compassionate Use Program as of September 2025?
As of September 2025, 127,206 patients were registered for conditions like PTSD and chronic illnesses.
Key Features of the Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Companies Approved | Nine companies now permitted to join the TCUP. |
| Authorized Providers | Growth from 3 to 12 licensed providers. |
| House Bill 46 | Allows for 15 dispensing organizations and multiple satellite locations. |
| Patient Registration | 127,206 patients registered as of September 2025. |
| Expanded Conditions | Includes chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, and Crohn’s disease. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Expands Medical Cannabis Program with Nine New Licenses
Texas Compassionate Use Program Expands in Austin
Texas Original Launches First Oral Syringe of Rick Simpson Oil
Big Changes Coming to Texas: Over 800 New Laws
Texas Hemp Industry Faces Uncertain Future with Senate Bill 5
Texas Hemp Industry Receives Relief from Vetoed THC Ban
Texas Governor’s Veto on THC Regulation Causes Stir
Texas Senate Bill 3 Faces Critical Decision from Governor Abbott
Texas House Takes Bold Step to Ban All THC Products
Texas Legislature Passes Major THC Ban: What It Means for Residents
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
