Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H122

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Refer
2/20/24  

Caption

Relative to a medical marijuana pilot program

Impact

The bill outlines a three-phase plan beginning with research and evaluation of existing medical marijuana programs and practices both in Massachusetts and across the U.S. This phase aims to gather comprehensive data surrounding the administration and delivery of medical marijuana to veterans. Notably, the pilot program seeks to develop a robust framework that aligns current medical practices with state policies pertaining to medical marijuana use, thereby influencing potential changes in state law and healthcare approaches for veterans.

Summary

House Bill H122 proposes the establishment of a pilot program known as the Crosby project that allows veterans to access medical marijuana as a treatment alternative for conditions typically managed with opioid medications. The goal is to address the ongoing opioid crisis by providing veterans with a potentially safer option for pain management and to combat opioid use disorder. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for innovative approaches in addressing veterans' health issues while reducing reliance on addictive substances.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of H122, particularly with respect to existing policies governing medical marijuana. Critics might raise concerns regarding the adequacy of available research on the effectiveness and safety of medical marijuana versus traditional opioid treatments. Furthermore, issues surrounding funding for the program and the societal stigma associated with medical marijuana usage could pose challenges for successful implementation. Additionally, ensuring the program is accessible and tailored to meet the unique needs of veterans will be a critical aspect of its success.

Companion Bills

MA H3849

Similar To Relative to a four-day work week pilot program

MA H4279

Similar To Relative to a four-day work week pilot program

MA H4505

Similar To To establish a pilot program to improve communications between local law enforcement and victims in Middlesex County

Previously Filed As

MA H181

Relative to a medical marijuana pilot program

MA H2707

Relative to furthering the success of opiate intervention programs

MA S83

To modernize Massachusetts medical marijuana program

MA H163

To Modernize the Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Program

MA S92

Relative to medical marijuana oversight

MA H0719

Medical Use of Marijuana

MA H176

Further defining eligibility for medical use marijuana

MA S79

Further defining eligibility for medical use marijuana

MA H4118

To establish an emergency medical services treatment-in-place (TIP) pilot program

MA S1685

Preserving second amendment rights for medical marijuana patients

Similar Bills

AZ SB1641

marijuana producers; licensure

OK HB2807

Medical marijuana; medical marijuana transporter license; providing issuance of licenses for premises under certain circumstances; directing creation of inventory manifests documenting certain information; allowing certain licensees to maintain and operate warehouses under certain conditions; effective date; emergency.

OK HB2807

Medical marijuana; medical marijuana transporter license; providing issuance of licenses for premises under certain circumstances; directing creation of inventory manifests documenting certain information; allowing certain licensees to maintain and operate warehouses under certain conditions; effective date; emergency.

AZ SB1713

Marijuana; dual licensees; rural communities

OK HB2897

Medical marijuana; transportation license; allowing transport of medical marijuana to patients; warehouses; inventory manifests and logs; signage; effective date.

OK HB2897

Medical marijuana; transportation license; allowing transport of medical marijuana to patients; warehouses; inventory manifests and logs; signage; effective date.