Texas, December 6, 2025
The Texas Department of Public Safety has granted preliminary approval to nine companies to expand the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP). This initiative aims to improve access to medical-grade THC treatments for patients across the state. The expansion will increase the total number of licensed dispensaries from 3 to 12, with plans to reach 15. The move responds to the needs of approximately 116,000 patients and aims to bring the state’s medical cannabis program more in line with those in other regions.
Austin, Texas – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has recently granted preliminary approval to nine companies vying to expand the state’s medical marijuana program, known as the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP). This expansion aims to improve access to medical-grade, prescription-only THC treatments for qualified patients across the Lone Star State.
These nine companies, pending final evaluations, include:
– 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
With this addition, the total number of licensed dispensaries in Texas will rise to 12, with aspirations to reach 15 soon. This expansion is a component of House Bill 46 — legislation enacted this year aimed at broadening patient access to medical cannabis by increasing the number of licensed dispensaries and introducing new product options.
The newly approved law allows for up to 15 licensees to provide medicines containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive substance found in marijuana. It is critical to note that marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Texas.
The expansion of TCUP is a significant move in enhancing access to medical cannabis in Texas, a program that has been recognized as one of the nation’s most restrictive. Currently, the program serves approximately 116,000 patients, and with additional providers, Texas aims to create a program that is more comparable to those in other states.
### Increased Access for Patients
The addition of new providers like Verano Texas, Trulieve TX, and others indicates a positive direction towards meeting the health needs of Texas residents. Patients requiring medical-grade cannabis for treatment can expect improved accessibility, particularly in underserved regions throughout the state.
### Evaluations and Future Prospects
DPS officials have outlined that further evaluations will occur before the final licenses are granted. This due diligence process will assess critical aspects such as financial stability, litigation history, and other necessary requirements. Nonetheless, the announcement of these companies provides a glimpse into the potential growth of Texas’s medical cannabis landscape.
### Community Impact and Economic Growth
The expansion of TCUP not only signifies an increase in healthcare accessibility but also highlights the opportunities for local businesses. Qualified companies entering this sector can lead to job creation and contribute positively to the state’s economy. As Texas sees more competition and innovation in this space, it can potentially enhance overall economic growth.
### Looking Ahead
While the program is expanding, stakeholders remain committed to maintaining a responsible approach to cannabis use. By ensuring that the THC products offered are strictly for medical use, the program seeks to balance patient care with public safety.
In conclusion, with the expansion of the Texas Compassionate Use Program, local businesses and patients alike stand to benefit significantly. The careful introduction of additional providers can enhance the economic landscape while ensuring that those in need have adequate access to crucial medical treatments.
Support for local businesses and community initiatives is more important than ever as Texas navigates this new chapter in healthcare and economic development.
### FAQ
What is the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP)?
The Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP) is a state initiative designed to provide access to medical-grade, prescription-only THC treatments for qualified patients throughout Texas.
How many companies were recently approved to join TCUP?
Nine companies were granted preliminary approval to join the TCUP, pending final evaluations.
What regions will the new providers serve?
The new providers will serve regions including El Paso, the Panhandle, North Texas, San Antonio, Central Texas, and the Rio Grande Valley, among others.
How many licensed dispensaries will there be in Texas after this expansion?
After this expansion, the total number of licensed dispensaries in Texas will increase to 12, with plans to reach 15 in the near future.
What is the expected impact of the TCUP expansion?
The expansion is expected to significantly increase the number of patients served and improve access to medical cannabis in Texas, which has one of the most limited medical marijuana programs in the nation.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Providers | Nine companies approved for preliminary licensing. |
| Total Dispensaries | Will rise to 12, with plans for 15. |
| Patient Access | Expected increase in the number of patients served; |
| Public Health Regions | Span across El Paso, Panhandle, North Texas, San Antonio, Central Texas, and Rio Grande Valley. |
| Legal Status | Medical marijuana remains strictly regulated; recreational use is not permitted. |
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