Legislation reintroduced in Congress this week could offer veterans who use medical cannabis temporary protection from federal prosecution and employment issues. While current law allows VA doctors to discuss medical cannabis with veterans in states with legal programs, it remains unclear whether the use of medical cannabis is protected. The Veterans Medical Marijuana Safe Harbor Act would create a five-year safe harbor for veterans using medical cannabis and allow the VA to prescribe it to them in states where it is legal. The bill also directs the VA to study how medical cannabis could assist veterans in managing chronic pain and reducing opioid abuse.
U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, introduced the bill in the Senate on April 19, with support from cosponsors including U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore. A companion bill was introduced in the House by U.S. Reps. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., and Dave Joyce, R-Ohio.
Schatz explained in a public statement that the bill would protect veteran patients and allow VA doctors to prescribe medical cannabis, while also providing insight into how medical marijuana can address the country’s opioid crisis. While medical cannabis is legal in 41 states and territories, veterans using VA healthcare cannot access medical cannabis through the VA. The bill would provide a solution to this issue by giving veterans access to medical cannabis in states where it is legal and creating safe harbor protection for those who choose to use it.
By allowing VA doctors to prescribe medical cannabis to veterans, the bill could help veterans manage chronic pain and reduce opioid use, which has been a major problem among veterans. The bill would also facilitate research into how medical cannabis can be used to address the opioid epidemic and improve the quality of life for veterans suffering from chronic pain and other medical conditions.
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