The Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill passed it second reading in Parliament today with the support of coalition parties and the National Party, which reversed its previous opposition. It means the use of medicinal cannabis will be extended to all people needing palliative relief, rather than just those with a year or less to live. “This legislation will greatly increase availability of quality medicinal cannabis products, and will allow for their domestic manufacture. “This will allow all parties and the public to see debate and agree on the main features of a medicinal cannabis scheme. However Mr Bell said the amendment that would require the Ministry of Health to create the medicinal cannabis scheme within 12 months was welcome.

Source: Otago Daily Times November 29, 2018 07:37 UTC