Senator Urges Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission to Deliver

Alabama State Sen. Merika Coleman demands the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) fulfill its promise to provide medical cannabis to patients in need. The delay, she argues, affects the health and well-being of many Alabamians.

Legislative Promise Unfulfilled

In 2021, legislation was enacted to offer medical cannabis to those with serious conditions like cancer and chronic pain. The AMCC was tasked with developing a licensing process and expected to have medical cannabis available by the end of 2023 or early 2024. As of mid-2024, access remains out of reach.

Critical Issues Identified

Senator Coleman highlights several failures by the AMCC:

• Failure to Follow Guidelines: Not adhering to Alabama Code 20-2A-50.
• Technology Issues: Problems with the commission’s application system and inconsistent solutions.
• Ignoring Requirements: Advancing applicants without meeting initial criteria.
• Lack of Transparency: Violations of the Open Meetings Act and Alabama Administrative Procedure Act.

Legal and Personal Impact

The AMCC’s shortcomings have led to legal actions and demands for transparency. Senator Coleman, reflecting on her father’s chronic pain and service as a disabled veteran, emphasizes the urgency of correcting these failures.

Call to Action

Senator Coleman urges the AMCC to rectify its mistakes and deliver medical cannabis as promised, stressing that now is the time to act in compliance with Alabama law.