On November 3, 2020, Florida voters approved Amendment 2, which legalized the use of medical marijuana for individuals with qualifying medical conditions. This amendment expanded upon the previous medical marijuana laws in Florida, which only allowed for low-THC cannabis for patients with certain conditions.
While this is a significant step forward for those who rely on medical marijuana to manage their symptoms, there are still important things to know about the new law and how it will affect patients in Florida.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
Under the new law, patients with the following qualifying medical conditions are eligible to use medical marijuana:
– Cancer
– Epilepsy
– Glaucoma
– HIV/AIDS
– Crohn’s disease
– Parkinson’s disease
– Multiple sclerosis
– ALS
– PTSD
– Chronic nonmalignant pain caused by a qualifying medical condition or that originates from a qualifying medical condition and persists beyond the usual course of that condition
In addition, physicians may recommend medical marijuana for other debilitating medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those listed above.
Obtaining Medical Marijuana
To obtain medical marijuana in Florida, patients must first be evaluated by a qualified physician who is registered with the Florida Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU). The physician must determine that the patient has a qualifying medical condition and that the benefits of using medical marijuana outweigh the potential risks.
Once the physician has made this determination, the patient can apply for a Medical Marijuana Use Registry Identification Card from the OMMU. This card allows the patient to purchase and use medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary in Florida.
Types of Medical Marijuana
Under the new law, patients can use a variety of forms of medical marijuana, including:
– Oils
– Tinctures
– Edibles
– Vape cartridges
– Topicals
However, smoking medical marijuana is still prohibited under Florida law.
Legal Protections
Patients who use medical marijuana in accordance with Florida law are protected from criminal prosecution and other penalties. However, it is important to note that employers are not required to accommodate the use of medical marijuana in the workplace, and patients may still face legal consequences if they operate a vehicle or engage in other activities while under the influence of medical marijuana.
Conclusion
Florida’s recent legalization of medical marijuana is a significant step forward for patients with qualifying medical conditions. However, it is important for patients to understand the requirements for obtaining medical marijuana, the types of medical marijuana available, and the legal protections afforded to them under Florida law. By staying informed and following the guidelines set forth by the OMMU, patients can safely and legally use medical marijuana to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
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