Published in NORML.org
Two separate pieces of legislation that seek to allow the physician supervised use of cannabis are expected to be introduced during the 2013 legislative session.
State Sen. Joe Bolkham has announced that he will introduce legislation to allow for Iowa patients with qualifying conditions to access and use cannabis for medical purposes with a doctor’s recommendation.
Rep. Bruce Hunter has introduced a similar measure, House File 22, in the General Assembly. You can read the full text of that proposal here.
House File 22 has been referred to the House Committee on Public Safety, but has yet to be scheduled for a hearing.
These proposals would allow for Iowans with qualifying conditions to possess up to two and a half ounces of marijuana, which can be cultivated from a private grow of no more than six plants, or purchased from a state approved dispensary.
Since 1996, eighteen states and the District of Columbia have approved legislation allowing for the use of cannabis therapy by qualified patients.