State lawmakers just passed a bill that could make Ivermectin easier to get.

The bill sits on Governor Greg Abbott's desk. Supporters say it gives people medical freedom, but critics have their concerns.

The drug Ivermectin is well known to ranchers.

"I use [it] three times a year, two times a year," rancher Teo Martinez said.

Martinez uses it to keep his herd healthy year-round.

"It's good for the cattle business," Martinez said.

In recent years, people started using Ivermectin as a treatment for COVID.

This week, the state legislature sent House Bill 25 to the governor's desk. If signed, it will make the parasite treatment available at pharmacies without a prescription.

Hidalgo County Health Authority Dr. Ivan Melendez believes easy access could come with dangerous consequences.

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