Why it matters: The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) aims to issue licenses for medical marijuana cultivators and distributors by the end of 2023 after facing multiple lawsuits challenging the rollout of the state’s medical cannabis program.
What they are saying: The AMCC attorney, Mark Wilkerson, acknowledges claims of deficient scoring and inconsistent treatment of applications. The AMCC chairman, Rex Vaughn, views the new licensing procedure as a reset and a way to move forward while utilizing the previous work done.
The big picture: Alabama legalized medical cannabis in 2021, but patients still cannot access it due to delays and legal challenges. The slow rollout has frustrated patients who rely on medical cannabis for various conditions. The AMCC’s approval of a new process for awarding licenses aims to address these setbacks and start issuing licenses soon.
What to watch: The temporary restraining order on licenses is still in place but may be lifted at a hearing later in the week. The AMCC hopes to issue licenses by the end of the year with the new procedure. It will be essential to monitor the progress of the licensing process and any potential further legal challenges.
My take: The delays in Alabama’s medical cannabis program have left patients without access to a potentially beneficial treatment option. The approval of a new licensing procedure is a positive step towards resolving the issues and providing patients with the relief they need. However, it remains to be seen if this new process will successfully address the concerns raised and expedite the availability of medical cannabis in the state.
