Louisiana House Bill HB391

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/1/21
• Refer: 4/1/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/26/21
• Engrossed: 5/4/21
• Refer: 5/5/21
• Report Pass: 5/12/21
• Enrolled: 6/3/21
• Chaptered: 6/21/21
• Passed: 6/21/21

Caption

Authorizes the recommendation of medical marijuana in raw or crude form and limits the dispensing of such product

Impact

With the enactment of HB 391, the state would see significant changes in how medical marijuana is prescribed and dispensed. The bill limits the quantity of raw or crude marijuana that can be dispensed to individual patients to 2.5 ounces every fourteen days, and it sets strict age restrictions on the dispensing of raw marijuana to individuals under twenty-one. These changes are likely to have a broader impact on the medical marijuana industry in Louisiana, influencing everything from pharmacy practices to patient access.

Summary

House Bill 391 seeks to amend the existing regulations surrounding the recommendation and dispensing of medical marijuana in Louisiana. The bill explicitly authorizes licensed physicians to recommend marijuana in its raw or crude form for patients diagnosed with debilitating medical conditions. It also allows the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy to establish rules regarding the administration of marijuana, specifically noting that forms such as metered-dose inhalers could be permitted for use, thus expanding the potential therapeutic delivery methods available to patients.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 391 appears to be generally supportive among those advocating for expanded medical marijuana access. Proponents argue that the bill provides necessary flexibility in treatment options, allowing physicians to utilize more direct methods of administration that could benefit patients significantly. However, there are concerns among some lawmakers and community groups about the implications of allowing raw marijuana, which may prompt debates regarding safety and the potential for misuse.

Contention

While the bill is framed positively for its potential to enhance patient care, notable points of contention arise concerning the potential negative effects of increased availability of unprocessed marijuana. Some critics may argue that lifting restrictions on raw marijuana could lead to complications in patient safety and quality assurance. Additionally, discussions around the potential impact on younger patients and the safeguards necessary to prevent misuse are likely to remain focal points as the legislation is implemented.