A judge has appointed a mediator to address the ongoing legal battle over Alabama’s medical marijuana licensing.
Montgomery Circuit Judge James Anderson named retired Circuit Judge Eugene Reese as the mediator in an effort to resolve disputes between companies vying for licenses to grow and sell medical cannabis, reports the Associated Press. Anderson emphasized that mediation could lead to a “speedy and just resolution.”
Although Alabama lawmakers approved a medical cannabis program in 2021, legal challenges have delayed its implementation. The dispute revolves around the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission’s process of awarding licenses. Companies denied licenses have accused the commission of violating state law, prompting the court to block the third attempt at issuing licenses in July.
Attorney Will Somerville, representing Alabama Always, which did not receive a license, expressed optimism about mediation, stating it aims to create new rules for the investigative process. Meanwhile, medical marijuana advocate Amanda Taylor voiced frustration, saying patients are suffering as legal battles continue.
The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission has yet to comment on the mediation order. However, the outcome of this case could influence how similar disputes are handled in other states like Florida, where voters are set to decide on legalizing recreational marijuana this November.
