Texas Legislature Passes Groundbreaking Bill Establishing State-Backed Consortium to Develop and Test Ibogaine as Treatment for Substance Use Disorders with Goal of Securing FDA Approval

The Texas legislature has advanced a pioneering bill creating a state-supported research consortium tasked with conducting clinical trials on ibogaine, a psychedelic compound showing promise as a treatment for substance use disorders and mental health conditions. This legislation aims to position Texas as a leader in the biomedical research, development, manufacturing, and distribution of ibogaine-based therapies, while retaining a commercial stake in all intellectual property generated throughout the drug development process.

The bill, Senate Bill 2308, passed both chambers over the weekend in a conference committee agreement and now moves to Governor Greg Abbott’s desk for signature. Notably, the state would claim rights to any resulting intellectual property, with 25 percent of revenues earmarked specifically for veterans programs in Texas.

Unique Consortium Model to Oversee Ibogaine Drug Development Incorporates Higher Education, Hospitals, and Drug Developers with State Health Agency Oversight

Unlike prior versions proposing a state grant program, the final bill establishes a consortium consisting of an institution of higher education, a hospital, and a drug developer to jointly lead ibogaine research efforts. The higher education institution will serve as consortium leader and act as the primary liaison to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), managing administrative duties and submitting funding requests on behalf of the group.

The consortium’s goal extends beyond clinical trials to obtaining a breakthrough therapy designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which would accelerate approval for ibogaine-based treatments. The legislation authorizes a $50 million appropriation from the state general fund to HHSC to finance the consortium’s activities, including clinical trials, though future costs are yet to be precisely determined.

Texas Lawmakers and Reform Advocates Celebrate Bill Passage, Highlighting the State’s Emerging Role as a National Model for Psychedelic Drug Development and Veteran Support

Bryan Hubbard, executive director of the American Ibogaine Initiative and lead architect of the bill, praised the Texas legislature for its leadership and vision, calling the legislation one of the most significant milestones in the American psychedelic movement’s history. Hubbard credited key sponsors Sen. Tan Parker, Rep. Cody Harris, House Speaker Dustin Burroughs, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick for their instrumental roles in advancing the bill.

Hubbard emphasized that by securing a commercial stake in intellectual property generated through the consortium, Texas taxpayers would realize ongoing returns on their investment, contrasting this approach with previous models where public funds flowed to private corporations without direct benefit to the public. He expressed hope that the project would lead to universal treatment access for those battling addiction and related conditions.

Bill Includes Safeguards and Revenue Provisions to Support Texas Veterans and Future Drug Development, While Establishing Clear Regulatory Oversight for Consortium Operations

The legislation requires the HHSC to annually report to the legislature on the fiscal impacts of the cannabis excise tax rate changes tied to the consortium’s work and drug development outcomes. Additionally, 25 percent of revenues from any intellectual property licensing or royalties would be dedicated exclusively to veteran assistance programs, reflecting a focus on supporting those who have served in the military.

The bill also incorporates mechanisms for private gifts, grants, and donations to supplement state funding, and mandates that HHSC maintain regulatory oversight to ensure the consortium operates safely and efficiently. Conference committee actions required additional chamber approvals due to expanding the bill’s scope beyond typical jurisdictional limits.

Texas Moves Toward Expanding Medical Cannabis Access and Psychedelic Research Amid Broader Legislative Debates Over Drug Policy and Local Reform Efforts

In a related legislative push, the Texas House recently approved a major expansion of the state’s limited medical marijuana program to include chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, Crohn’s disease, and other inflammatory bowel diseases. The bill, which passed both chambers with overwhelming support, would allow more patients access to cannabis-based treatments with increased THC limits and longer prescription periods.

Meanwhile, Texas lawmakers continue debating restrictive bills banning consumable hemp products containing trace THC and limiting local ballot initiatives to decriminalize marijuana or other controlled substances. Despite these challenges, Texas activists remain committed to advancing drug policy reform at the local level, including plans to place marijuana legalization measures before voters in cities such as Kyle.

Public opinion polls indicate strong support for legalization and regulatory relaxation among Texas voters, underscoring the growing momentum behind cannabis and psychedelic reform in the state.