Lawmakers in the Lone Star State gave the green light to a measure under which doctors can recommend medical cannabis instead of opioids to patients with chronic pain caused by a myriad of conditions, reported Marijuana Moment.
The Texas House Public Health Committee passed the bill from Rep. Stephanie Klick (R) on Monday. In addition to expanding the list of conditions for which patients can qualify for low-THC medical cannabis, the legislation also seeks to replace the THC cap under the state’s current medical cannabis law.
Initially, the bill sought to replace the limit from a one percent THC cap for cannabis oil to five percent THC content, but it was amended to include a volumetric dose method instead, setting a limit at a volumetric dose of 10 milligrams. Additionally, the Department of State Health Services would be permitted to specify “debilitating medical conditions” that qualify for the program under the bill.
House Bill 1805 is now headed to the Calendars Committee to be scheduled for consideration by the full chamber. The measure would take effect as of Sept. 1, 2023, if it is enacted.
The latest legislative move came on the heels of efforts to decriminalize marijuana possession statewide. Earlier this month, Texas lawmakers held a hearing on House Bill 218 from Rep. Joe Moody (D) that would reduce penalties for possession of cannabis and cannabis concentrates.
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