Why it matters: This article highlights the struggle faced by a nine-year-old girl, Krystal Mattis, who is unable to attend full days of school due to her need for cannabis tincture to treat her epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder. The article raises questions about the rights of medical cannabis patients in school settings and the potential impact on their education.
What they are saying: Krystal’s parents, Sabrina and Tim Mattis, argue that it is unfair and unjust for their daughter to be unable to receive her medication at school, preventing her from attending full days. They believe that allowing her to consume her medicine on school property, under proper supervision, would not disrupt her routine or cause discomfort. They have reached out to Minnesota DFL Rep. Zack Stephenson, who informed them of an exemption to the adult-use cannabis statute in Minnesota that permits medical cannabis use on school grounds.
The big picture: This case raises larger concerns about the rights and accommodations for medical cannabis patients in educational settings. As medical cannabis becomes more widely accepted and legalized, there is a need to address how these patients can access their medication while attending school. Balancing patient rights, medical needs, and concerns about substance use on school premises is an ongoing challenge.
What to watch: It will be interesting to see if the school district changes its decision and allows Krystal to consume her medication on school grounds. Additionally, the progress of cannabis legislation at the state and federal level may influence how medical cannabis is treated in educational settings. This case serves as an example of the complexities and conflicts that can arise as cannabis laws evolve.
My take: It is important to prioritize the needs and well-being of medical cannabis patients, including children, while also considering the potential impact on their education. Schools should work with families and medical professionals to develop appropriate guidelines and accommodations for the safe and effective use of medical cannabis on school property. This case underscores the need for continued advocacy and education regarding medical cannabis to ensure that patients are not unfairly limited in their access to education.
