Medical Marijuana has been legal in Florida since 2017 and today the federal government took a big step to catching up. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) just announced it would move cannabis from schedule I to schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act.
In non-vague government talk, that means cannabis will no longer be treated like heroin or LSD by the federal government. Instead, it will be available with a prescription at a pharmacy like other substances, including ketamine and Tylenol with codeine.
Rescheduling will also allow federal tax dollars to go into researching ways cannabis can be used for treating injuries and illness. This is something veterans in Florida know all too well.
Studies have shown time after time that medical marijuana can be helpful in treating neuropathic pain, PTSD, and depression. But right now, our veterans – whether their state has legalized medical marijuana or not – are prohibited from participating in medical marijuana programs.
That’s why I’m pushing bipartisan legislation to make it easier for qualified veterans to access medical marijuana in states where it is legal.
As a veteran and as a co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Cannabis Caucus, I will fight for commonsense solutions to make a difference in the lives of those who’ve served.
