Maryland Lawmakers Consider Marijuana To Treat Opioid Addiction
State representatives in Maryland are considering a new option for treating opioid addiction. A committee in Maryland’s House of Delegates is suggesting legalizing the use of medical marijuana to combat the abuse of opioids. “With the problems we’re having with heroin, this is something that should be available in the state of Maryland,” said Del. Cheryl Glenn, a Baltimore Democrat and chair of the Legislative Black Caucus.
West Virginia Senate Votes to Legalize Medical Marijuana
West Virginia could be joining the growing list of states that have legalized medical marijuana. Senate Bill 386 would create the West Virginia Medical Cannabis Commission. The commission would oversee new medical marijuana regulations in West Virginia. The bill, sponsored by Senator Richard Ojeda, was passed in the senate by a 28-6 margin. The bill calls for 15 approved growers and 60 dispensaries statewide. The number of growers could be expanded in the future if necessary.
Delaware Could Legalize Recreational Marijuana
House Bill 110 has been submitted in Delaware. If passed, recreational marijuana would become legal. This would be the first time that state lawmakers have legalized recreational marijuana. Other states that have legalized recreational marijuana have done so through ballot measures. “This is an opportunity to create a new industry that would include agricultural, processing and retail jobs throughout the state,” said Representative Helene Keeley, one of the bill’s co-sponsors.
Georgia Senate Passes Medical Marijuana Bill
Members of the Georgia Senate voted to approve a bill to expand the state’s list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana use. The bill will require the signature of Governor Nathan Deal before becoming law. Among the conditions added are severe autism, Brass Alzheimer’s disease, AIDS and Tourette’s syndrome. Currently, Georgia has about 1,300 patients enrolled in the current medical marijuana program. Flower and edibles are not permitted in Georgia. Patients can use products such as vape oils and tinctures.
