A Bill to amend Washington, DC’s medical marijuana program that would remove licensing restrictions on medical marijuana businesses was approved by district lawmakers on Friday, reports marijuana moment.
Supported by DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (Put on Names of Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) the measure also aims to promote social justice in the cannabis industry and establish new regulated business categories.
What is inside?
In addition to creating new job opportunities within the burgeoning market such as onsite consumption opportunities and cannabis cooking classes, the Medicinal Cannabis Amendment Act – which has progressed through that Committee on Justice and Public Safety unanimously with amendments – would also Help Put an end to the “gifts” from operators.
It partly builds on a previous one invoice which sought to fine unregistered businesses $30,000 for “gifting” marijuana to people who purchase unrelated products and services. The district council rejected a resolution to allow expedited action on this bill shortly.
It also sought self-certification for adults 21 and older to use medicinal cannabis and introduced a tax exemption for medicinal cannabis products in April. Now the new law passed last week codifies that right.
“The simple language of the bill does not legalize the recreational possession, distribution or use of cannabis,” the bill reads. “Rather, it allows qualified medical patients to self-certify that they meet regulatory criteria.”
What’s next?
Prior to Council review The bill must next be approved by the Business and Economic Development Committee.
Photo: Courtesy of Kindel Media and 12019 from Pixabay
