D.C. Lawmakers Reshape The District's Medical Marijuana Program, Here's How

A bill to amend Washington, D.C.’s medical marijuana program that would eliminate licensing caps for medical marijuana businesses was approved by the District’s lawmakers on Friday, reported Marijuana Moment.

Supported by D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) on behalf of Mayor Muriel Bowser (D), the measure also seeks to promote social equity in the cannabis industry as well as set up new regulated business categories.

What’s In It?

In addition to creating new working opportunities within the burgeoning market such as on-site consumption facilities and cannabis cooking classes, the Medical Cannabis Amendment Act - which advanced through the Judiciary & Public Safety Committee unanimously with amendments - would also help put an end to “gifting” operators.

It partially builds on a previous bill that sought to impose a $30,000 fine for unregistered businesses that “gift” marijuana to people who purchase unrelated products and services. The District Council rejected a resolution to allow expedited action on that bill shortly.

In addition, it sought self-certification for adults 21+ to use medical cannabis and established a tax holiday for medical cannabis products during April. Now, the new legislation which was passed last week is codifying that right.

“The plain language of the bill does not legalize recreational possession, distribution, or use of cannabis,” the bill says. “Rather it allows qualifying medical patients to self-certify that they meet the criteria under the law.”

What’s Next?

Prior to Council’s review, the bill needs approval from the Business and Economic Development Committee next.

Photo: Courtesy of Kindel Media and 12019 by Pixabay