House Bill 887, a proposal that would sharply reduce how much military veterans pay to participate in Florida’s medical marijuana program, was given unanimous approval today by the House Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee.
The committee voted 18 to 0 in favor of the measure, filed by Representatives Susan Valdés (R) and Michelle Salzman (R). The legislation would lower the cost of a medical marijuana registry identification card for honorably discharged veterans from $75 to just $15, an 80% decrease. The reduced price would not only apply to initial cards, but also to annual renewals and any replacement cards issued by the Department of Health.
To qualify for the reduced fee, veterans would need to present documentation to the Department of Health showing proof of service, such as discharge paperwork, a Veterans Affairs identification card, or a Florida driver license displaying a veteran designation.
The proposal would take effect July 1 if it is approved by the full Legislature and signed into law.