House Bill 3361: South Carolina Medical Marijuana FAQ
South Carolina has introduced House Bill 3361, or the South Carolina Compassionate Care Act into the state’s Senate in hopes to legalize the use of medical marijuana. The bill successfully passed through a Medical Affairs Committee in late March. Keep reading as we answer the bill’s frequently asked questions.
HB 3361: What is the South Carolina Medical Marijuana Bill?
South Carolina has introduced a medical marijuana bill and is calling it the South Carolina Compassionate Care Act. The purpose of the bill is to permit the medical use and cultivation of cannabis in the state of South Carolina. South Carolina’s representatives are adamant that the bill is narrowly tailored for strictly medical use.
HB 3361: What Medical Conditions are Covered in the House Bill?
Currently, the proposed legislation allows for those with epilepsy, cancer, Crohn's disease, sickle cell anemia, ulcerative colitis, cachexia, chronic pain, autism, post-traumatic stress disorder, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, and other ‘debilitating medical conditions, to use medical marijuana. However, the bill would also create a Medical Cannabis Advisory Board that would consider petitions to add additional serious conditions to the program.
HB 3361: How Could I Get a Medical Marijuana License In South Carolina?
Under the proposed legislation a patient with a qualifying condition must have a written certification issued by a physician with whom they have a bona fide relationship. Patients must apply to the health department for a registration card that will allow them access to dispensaries and provide legal protections.
HB 3361: In What Form Will Medical Marijuana be Issued in South Carolina?
If this bill were to pass, it allows for the sale of up to two ounces of dried cannabis per fourteen (14) day period. The bill also allows for the sale of edible cannabis products, beverages, topical products, ointments, oils, patches, sprays, suppositories, and tinctures.
HB 3361: Will it be Legal to Drive While Using Cannabis In South Carolina?
No. The Senate bill strictly forbids operating any motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana, even for those with a medical license.
HB 3361: Where Could I Use My Medical Marijuana In South Carolina?
Although the use of medical marijuana would be legalized with the passage of this bill, there are still restrictions on where it may be used. The bill strictly prohibits the use of medical marijuana in schools, jails, or any other public place within the state.
HB 3361: Can Anyone Sell Medical Marijuana In South Carolina?
No. Those who wish to participate in the sale or cultivation of medical marijuana must submit to a strict application process with the state health department. The department will license and regulate 15 cultivation centers, 30 processing facilities, and one dispensary for every 20 pharmacies in the state, in addition to five independent testing laboratories and four transporters.
HB 3361: Can Anyone Work at a Medical Marijuana Dispensary?
No. Included in the bill is a specific requirement that dispensary employees must consist of licensed pharmacists or other medical professionals.
HB 3361: When Might the House Bill Become Law In S. Carolina?
As of late March, the bill successfully passed through the first senate committee. It is unclear when the bill may be enacted into law.
Read HB 3361 South Carolina Medical Marijuana laws.
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