Chicopee, Mass. State health officials are proposing some changes to medical marijuana regulations. The Department of Public Health is recommending the reforms based on what they learned from the first three years of legal medical marijuana in Massachusetts.
One major change would allow nurse practitioners to certify patients for medical marijuana. A second change would allow dispensaries to post product prices on their websites.
Right now, there are about 170 physicians registered with the states medical marijuana program, and almost 30,000 patients.
Anthony Hicks of Chicopee told 22News he isnt so sure about the new guidelines.
Personally, I think doctors should be the ones prescribing it if people are going to be getting it. Just because you want to make sure that that stuff is regulated. If its working for people, thats great. But we need to make sure its being taken care of properly and that people arent abusing the system, Hicks said.
Among the other changes being supported by DPH are allowing doctors more flexibility to certify patients for less than 10 ounces of a 60-day marijuana supply. They are also looking to enhance labeling, security, and background checks at dispensaries.
There are now seven dispensaries operational in the state, including one in Northampton.
The Department of Public Health will have public hearings before moving forward with the proposals.
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker
Full Article: New Regulations Proposed For Medical Marijuana In Massachusetts
Author: David McKay
Contact: 413-377-1160
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Website: WWLP
