Florida Lawmakers Unanimously Approve Bill to Waive Medical Marijuana Card Fees for Military Veterans
The Florida House Health and Human Services Committee has unanimously approved a bill that would exempt military veterans from state registration fees for medical marijuana cards, allowing them to obtain the certifications for free. The bill, HB 555, was introduced by Rep. Alex Andrade (R) and would change the current annual renewal process to every two years.
The bill’s language was modified earlier this month to make only minor changes to the state’s medical cannabis program. The changes would waive the $75 registration and renewal fees for veterans, making it easier for them to access medical marijuana treatment.
Several supporters testified in favor of the bill, and no one spoke against it. Melissa Villar of Tallahassee NORML suggested expanding the bill to include discounted or cost-free medical marijuana cards for individuals with disabilities or low incomes.
If the bill becomes law, the changes would take effect on July 1. Meanwhile, lawmakers are also considering legislation that would outlaw fungal spores that produce mushrooms containing psilocybin or psylocin, and restrict hemp-derived THC products.
Separately, a state judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the cannabis company Trulieve against the state Republican Party over last year’s failed constitutional amendment to legalize adult-use marijuana. The company had argued that the GOP’s opposition campaign was “intentionally deceptive,” but the judge disagreed.
Despite last year’s ballot proposal failing, a recent survey found that 67 percent of Florida voters now support legalization, including 82 percent of Democrats, 66 percent of independents, and 55 percent of Republicans.
