Today I’m taking a look at New
York State Senate Bill 1682 sponsored by Democratic Senators
Montgomery, Krueger and Sampson. A
different bill introduced by Senator Savino is also expected to be introduced.
Senate Bill 1682 would amend
the public health law in relation to medical use of marijuana.
The bill would allow use of
marijuana in health care, including palliative care, veterinary care and
research. As written, dentists, podiatrists and veterinarians would be able to
approve patients, and there is no age limit.
A practitioner would certify
that a patient has a serious condition, that the patient is under the
practitioner’s care, that the condition can and should be treated with the
medical use of marijuana, and that other drugs or treatments would not be as
effective. Certifications would be effective for a six month period.
Patients and caregivers
would be allowed to be in possession of up to eight ounces of marijuana. Consuming
marijuana in a public place would be unlawful.
Local health departments and
registered non-profit organizations would sell, administer, deliver, dispense
or distribute marijuana to those holding valid certifications. Organizations
would dispense up to a thirty day supply.
Marijuana would be dispensed
in a container with an orange label and marked “CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, DANGEROUS
UNLESS USED AS DIRECTED".
Practitioners would be
required to file reports for each certification every ninety days including a
brief statement of the level and pattern of marijuana use by the patient and
the effectiveness of the medical use of marijuana for the patient.
An outside evaluator would
conduct an analysis of the practical operation of this act, the clinical value of
medical use of marijuana under this act, and the effect on illegal use of
controlled substances.
This act would take effect
immediately provided that the department of health shall make regulations and
issue forms within 180 days.
Cheryl DePaolo
Director of the Ulster Prevention Council