Connecticut House Bill HB07057

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/14/15
• Refer: 4/14/15

Caption

An Act Establishing A Surcharge On Palliative Marijuana Producers And Expanding The Conditions That Qualify For The Palliative Use Of Marijuana.

Impact

If passed, the bill will affect existing guidelines related to palliative marijuana use in the state, thereby increasing the financial contributions of marijuana producers to the state revenue through the surcharges. The structured surcharge is set to increase gradually over the years, starting at three percent and potentially reaching six and one-half percent based on specific patient registration thresholds. Consequently, this could generate significant funds for state coffers while also making medical marijuana more broadly accessible to patients.

Summary

House Bill 07057 proposes the establishment of a surcharge on the gross receipts of licensed producers of palliative marijuana sold to licensed dispensaries. The legislation not only seeks to impose this financial burden but also aims to expand the definition of qualifying medical conditions for the palliative use of marijuana. By widening the scope of eligible conditions, the bill responds to a growing recognition of marijuana's potential to aid in alleviating symptoms associated with various debilitating medical issues.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns raised about how the surcharge might impact the market for palliative marijuana and the affordability for patients relying on these medications. Critics of the bill may argue that imposing additional costs on producers could result in higher prices for patients or create barriers for access, countering the bill's objective of expanding palliative marijuana usage. Additionally, the flexibility in determining qualifying conditions by a state department may generate debate regarding the appropriateness and transparency of such regulations.