A Louisiana Senate bill that would allow certain terminally ill patients to use medical marijuana while in a healthcare facility has now advanced to a third reading in the Senate.
Senate Bill 270, filed by State Senator Katrina Jackson-Andrews (D), was given approval today through its second reading, moving it to a third and final reading that’s expected soon. Once it’s passed through its third reading, it will be sent to the state’s House of Representatives for consideration.
The proposal would require healthcare facilities to allow qualified patients to use medical marijuana, although smoking and vaping would remain prohibited. The measure would apply to patients with a terminal and irreversible condition under Louisiana law who also have a current recommendation for medical marijuana.
The bill was first advanced by the Senate Committee on Health and Welfare on April 1 with amendments. Those changes narrowed the definition of healthcare facility so it would no longer include freestanding or distinct behavioral health units, or a hospital’s emergency or outpatient department.
The amended version also makes clear that responsibility for the marijuana would rest with the patient or the patient’s primary caregiver. Under the proposal, the patient or caregiver would be responsible for acquiring, retrieving, administering and removing the marijuana. Physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other facility staff would be prohibited from administering, storing, retrieving or otherwise assisting with it.
The legislation would also require marijuana to be kept in a locked container, with any remaining product removed when the patient is discharged or disposed of under facility policy if no caregiver is available. Healthcare facilities would also be required to adopt written guidelines and train staff on the policy.
If enacted, the measure would take effect August 1, 2026.
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