Pennsylvania Lawmakers Intensify Scrutiny of Medical Marijuana Program Following Investigations
A series of investigations by Spotlight PA has led to increased scrutiny of Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program. A bill aimed at improving doctor oversight of the program has passed the state House with bipartisan support.
The bill, which includes measures prompted by Spotlight PA’s reporting, would give the Department of Health more authority to monitor doctors who approve medical marijuana prescriptions. The department could place doctors on probation, limit the number of certifications they issue, or impose reporting requirements.
The investigations by Spotlight PA raised concerns about the quality of care many patients receive. Records obtained through litigation showed that a small number of doctors approve a disproportionately large share of medical marijuana cards in Pennsylvania. The Department of Health has also rarely blocked doctors from joining the program based on prior discipline.
State Rep. Tim Twardzik, a Republican, cited the investigations while advocating for the legislation. He said it’s “necessary we provide the department with clear authority to ensure that patients in the program are properly being cared for.”
The bill passed the House Health Committee unanimously and was approved by the full House with a 194-8 vote. It now awaits action in the Senate Law and Justice Committee.
State Sen. Rosemary Brown, a Republican, questioned top officials in the Shapiro administration during a budget hearing, citing concerns about the program’s oversight. She highlighted a handful of doctors who each approved at least 11,000 certifications in a year, calling the numbers “crazy.”
Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt described the numbers as “extraordinary” and said the department’s investigations are “complaint-driven.” A spokesperson for the agency said it is dedicated to protecting the health and safety of the public and reviews every potential license violation of which it becomes aware.
The Department of Health has added staff, improved communications, and increased transparency under the Shapiro administration, according to a spokesperson. However, some lawmakers, including Brown, are looking into introducing their own medical marijuana legislation to address their concerns.
Spotlight PA’s reporting on the medical marijuana program has led to calls for reform and increased oversight. The news organization’s investigations have highlighted concerns about the program’s quality of care and the lack of transparency in the certification process.
In response to the reporting, the Department of Health has taken steps to improve transparency and accountability. The department has added staff, improved communications, and increased transparency, according to a spokesperson.
The bill’s passage is a significant step towards improving the medical marijuana program in Pennsylvania.
