On August 22, 2025, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) announced a major development in the state’s medical cannabis policy, publishing proposed rules in the Texas Register that would expand the Compassionate Use Program. This expansion, which is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, pending a public comment period through September, introduces significant changes that are expected to make medical cannabis more accessible to patients in need.
One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of inhalation devices, such as vaporizers, as an approved method for consuming medical cannabis. Prior to this, Texas patients could only consume medical cannabis through oral methods, including capsules and oils. For many patients, especially those dealing with conditions that require fast-acting relief, oral consumption can be too slow or less effective. By allowing inhalation devices, the state is providing an alternative that delivers more immediate effects, potentially offering a better experience for patients seeking relief from symptoms such as chronic pain, anxiety, or nausea. This change could make it easier for patients to use cannabis in a way that better suits their medical needs, as inhalation methods tend to provide quicker relief compared to oral consumption.
In addition to the new consumption methods, the expansion of the Compassionate Use Program is also expected to include more qualifying medical conditions. While the specific conditions have not yet been fully disclosed, the general trend is a broadening of eligibility to encompass a wider range of ailments that could benefit from medical cannabis. This is a crucial step in ensuring that more patients have access to a treatment option that could improve their quality of life. Conditions that may soon be eligible for treatment with medical cannabis include various chronic conditions, neurological disorders, and mental health issues, all of which have shown promise in studies related to cannabis use.
The expansion of the Compassionate Use Program is a significant victory for patient advocacy groups and healthcare providers who have long pushed for more accessible and diverse cannabis treatment options in Texas. Advocates argue that the inclusion of inhalation devices is a crucial step forward, as it addresses many of the concerns around the slow onset of relief from oral medications. It also gives patients more control over their treatment plans, allowing them to tailor their use of medical cannabis to their specific needs.
The proposed rule changes are still in the process of being finalized, and a public comment period through September will provide an opportunity for Texas residents, healthcare professionals, and advocacy organizations to provide feedback on the changes. This input will be vital in shaping the final version of the rules and ensuring that the program adequately addresses the needs of all stakeholders. Given the growing support for medical cannabis in Texas and across the country, the feedback process is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring the program’s success.
For patients who stand to benefit from these changes, the upcoming expansion of the Compassionate Use Program is an exciting development. By introducing inhalation devices and broadening the range of qualifying conditions, Texas is positioning itself as a leader in providing access to medical cannabis. As more states continue to reform their cannabis policies, Texas’ move to expand access to medical cannabis treatment reflects an ongoing trend toward greater patient access and more flexible treatment options. With these changes, the state is taking an important step toward providing better care for those who need it most.
