It’s official: the House approves the bill to further expand medical marijuana research

Submitted by Rep. Earl Blumenauer [D-OR] and Rep. Andy Harris [R-MD]The bill will simplify the process by which researchers apply for permits to study cannabis and set deadlines for federal agencies to review applications in a timely manner.

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RELATED: US Senate clears bipartisan marijuana research bill ahead of House vote on legalization

“Cannabis has a wide range of therapeutic uses, but researchers have consistently faced significant obstacles in conducting studies. Research is key to evaluating and unlocking the full potential of cannabis, and we applaud the House for passing legislation that would greatly expand the allowable range of cannabis for study,” said Steven Hawkins, CEO of the US Cannabis Council.

What does the invoice do?

• The bill will streamline the licensing process for researchers wishing to conduct cannabis research and provide easier access to a greater supply of high-quality medical cannabis for study purposes. It will also ensure that research on cannabis and other potentially beneficial marijuana-derived substances is based on sound science by reducing the regulatory barriers associated with marijuana research.
• “Today’s vote in the House of Representatives and last month’s unanimous vote in the Senate on a more limited proposal both clearly signal Congress’ commitment to cannabis research. We urge House and Senate leaders to consolidate their bills and pass significant cannabis research reform this year,” Hawkins added.
• Senate approved bipartisan marijuana research bill

RELATED: Marijuana Research Bill Would Give Scientists Access to Dispensary Products

The recent breakthrough in federal cannabis reform follows the unanimous passage by the Senate of another cannabis research bill sponsored by Sens. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA). became. and referred to as the Cannabidiol and Marijuana Research Expansion Act. After its reintroduction in February 2021, it was adopted unanimously and without debate.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been republished with permission.