Gov. Wolf Signs Law Changing Medical Marijuana Regulations

HARRISBURG, PA —Gov. Tom Wolf this week signed legislation making permanent changes to the state's medical marijuana program that were temporarily enacted last year when the coronavirus outbreak began.

Under the new law, medical marijuana dispensaries can continue offering curbside cannabis pickups by patients; personal possession limits rise from a 30-day to a 90-day supply and telemedicine appointments can continue to be be used to certify medical marijuana patients.

A proposed amendment to the bill, which would have permitted home cultivation of medical marijuana, wasn't included in the legislation's final version.

"It’s been five years since Pennsylvania legalized medical marijuana, and in that time the Department of Health has examined the program’s successes and challenges and made important recommendations on improving the law,” Gov. Wolf said upon signing the bill. “This legislation provides important updates to our state’s medical marijuana program to ensure that patients have improved access to medication."

Rep. Paul Schemel of Frankin County, who sponsored the bill, told the Pennsylvania Capital-Star that the legislation puts medical marijuana “more in line with pharmaceuticals in a pharmacy. I’m supportive of that.”

The measure also allows people with misdemeanor drug convictions to work in the industry. Those with felony drug convictions can as well once 10 years have passed since the crime was committed.

See the entire bill here.

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