Bill > SF2360

This bill establishes the Medical Cannabidiol Act, which allows for the medical use of cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis with a low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) level, for patients diagnosed with intractable epilepsy, a severe seizure disorder unresponsive to standard treatments. Under this act, a neurologist, after a thorough examination and trial of alternative treatments, can recommend cannabidiol if they determine the potential benefits outweigh the risks for a patient who is a permanent resident of the state and has been treated by a neurologist for at least six months. Patients and their designated primary caregivers (individuals at least 18 years old responsible for managing the patient's well-being regarding medical cannabidiol use) can obtain a cannabidiol registration card from the department of transportation, which is issued based on the neurologist's recommendation and requires specific patient and caregiver information. The department of public health will maintain confidential records of cardholders, accessible only to authorized personnel for verification by law enforcement. The act provides an affirmative defense against prosecution for unlawful possession of marijuana for patients and primary caregivers who comply with its provisions, including possession limits of thirty-two ounces of cannabidiol oil, and requires the University of Iowa to report on scientific literature regarding cannabidiol use for intractable epilepsy. This chapter is set to be repealed on July 1, 2017.