Florida State Senator Joe Gruters (R) introduced Senate Bill 552 today, proposing significant amendments to the state’s medical marijuana laws.
Florida State Capitol.
The bill would expand the list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana use, allowing patients with conditions similar to those already recognized to qualify, even if their specific diagnosis is not on the official list of conditions. It also includes patients who have any conditions that has led to them being prescribed an opioid classified as a Schedule II controlled substance.
Another key change in the bill is the authorization of telehealth for both initial and renewal medical marijuana evaluations (current law requires an initial in-person examination). If passed, this would allow patients to consult with qualified physicians remotely, increasing accessibility, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility issues. SB 552 also proposes increasing the number of supply limits that a physician can issue in a single certification while adjusting the frequency with which physicians must evaluate patients.
The bill further extends the renewal period for patient and caregiver identification cards from one year to two years, reducing administrative burdens.
The measure also directs the Department of Health to establish procedures for certain nonresidents to register as visiting qualified patients and receive identification cards, stating:
the department shall establish procedures and processes for nonresidents who are actively enrolled in the medical marijuana program of another jurisdiction recognized by the department to register as visiting qualified patients and be issued medical marijuana use registry identification cards within 1 business day after such request to register. A visiting qualified patient may engage in all conduct authorized for a qualified patient in this state.
For the bill’s full text, click here.
