Florida Lawmakers Have New Medical Marijuana Rules Coming

Floridians may not have to wait 90 days to receive a medical marijuana recommendation thanks to compromises underway. In a few days, the House will vote on new medical marijuana rules; a measure that was brought by House Majority Leader Ray Rodrigues.

Rodrigues’ approach is more in tune with the Florida Senate’s approach, according to Palm Beach Post. On Friday, HB 1397 was modified to remove the 90-day waiting period. It also allows for vaping and edibles. The House may vote on Tuesday.

Rodrigues said, “We have listened, and we have worked hard to create a patient-centered process.”

The House rescinded its requirement of re-certification for patients every 3 months. Patients would be permitted a 30-week supply. The Senate is only requiring an annual recertification. The Department of Health would be allowed to choose a patient identification card vendor as well.

Rodrigues made the changes regarding the identification cards after patient complaints stating there were delays in receiving them. Rodrigues also said, “Our goal is that it’s … as easy as it is to get your hunting or your fishing license.”

The House and Senate are still divided regarding the number of medical marijuana operator licenses to issue. Seven companies are licensed to cultivate, sell/dispense, and process medical marijuana in Florida.

Sponsor of SB 406, Rob Bradley, said, “We’ve made significant progress. The House bill today reflects a lot of our discussions. They’ve moved on the 90-day waiting period. They’ve moved on edibles, as well as vaping. So I feel really good about where we are.”