Alabama Senate Bill SB278

Alabama 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/22
• Refer: 3/1/22

Caption

Cannabis, women of childbearing age, certain requirements established for medical cannabis use, Sec. 20-2A-64 am'd.

Impact

The bill will alter existing state laws relating to the regulation of medical cannabis dispensaries and their operations. It requires dispensaries to maintain a minimum distance of one thousand feet from childcare facilities and education institutions, ensuring that cannabis sales are kept at a safe distance from vulnerable populations, particularly children. With this amendment, the state seeks to establish stricter controls over the distribution of medical cannabis and to enforce additional safety protocols such as the mandatory use of surveillance cameras at dispensing sites, which provide monitoring and security over cannabis transactions.

Summary

Senate Bill 278 introduces several significant amendments to the regulations surrounding the medical use of cannabis, particularly focusing on the requirements for women of childbearing age. Under the proposed law, a dispensary will be mandated to obtain a negative pregnancy test from women aged 25 to 50 prior to allowing them to purchase medical cannabis. This provision reflects growing concerns about the effects of cannabis on fetal development and aims to ensure that medical cannabis is not used by those potentially endangering a pregnancy. Additionally, breastfeeding women will be restricted from purchasing cannabis products unless they act as registered caregivers, further emphasizing the bill's focus on protecting maternal and child health.

Contention

The main points of contention surrounding SB278 stem from the implications of requiring pregnancy tests as a condition for accessing medical cannabis. Proponents of this regulation argue that it is a necessary step to ensure the safety of both expectant mothers and their unborn children. However, critics have raised concerns that such requirements may discourage women from seeking necessary medical care related to cannabis, thereby infringing on their rights to make health decisions. Furthermore, the requirement for surveillance and documentation practices may lead to additional burdens on dispensaries and potentially hinder the accessibility of cannabis for patients in need.

Last_action

The bill, if passed, will come into effect three months following its approval by the Governor, indicating that stakeholders will need to prepare for its implementation in terms of regulatory compliance and operational changes within dispensaries across Alabama.