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Florida Officials Get Criticisms Over State’s Medical Marijuana Laws

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During last week’s statewide tour to discuss and receive feedback regarding medical marijuana, the Florida Department of Health surely got an earful from supporters. Officials are seriously discussing an expansion of the medical marijuana program. Amendment 2 was passed with 71.3-percent voter approval in November.

Doctors and medical marijuana supporters heavily criticize the state’s program, according to Health News Florida. There is still discussion regarding who will determine the list of qualifications. Once the framework and regulations are fully drafted, those rules and regulations have to be adopted. Supporters are expecting controversy, as they believe the state will be too strict with its medical marijuana program rules.

Former Florida police officer and current medical marijuana advocate, Lauren Drake displayed two photos. She inquired as to which is the photo of the person on illegal drugs.

Her reply was, “This person right here? [right]. All legally prescribed narcotics, benzos up to about 15 to 20 different pharmaceuticals. They were all legally obtained for migraines – chronic migraines and IBS.”

She continued by saying, “Picture on the left – this picture that’s on my left? That’s medical marijuana. Both of these pictures are of me.”

The state-mandated waiting period isn’t sufficient for one disabled veteran. Bill Cody thinks that the waiting period is a disservice to Florida veterans.

Cody said, “Your attempt to dictate the doctor patient relationship harms veterans. Veterans don’t need to go through a 90-day waiting period they should be able to walk into any certifying physician’s office with their medical records and in one visit receive their recommendation.”

The 90-day waiting period rule may end up being suspended if lawmakers have their way. Part of what’s standing in the way is deadlines to have regulations in place.

Christian Bax, the director of the Office of Compassionate Use, said, “It’s certainly not easy, but we believe that we can fulfill those deadlines. We certainly respect that it’s the prerogative of the Legislature to implement a constitutional amendment. We will respect any legislation that they pass and is signed by the governor and becomes effective.”

Early July is the deadline for the rules for the medical marijuana program.