Kansas: next state to legalize medical cannabis?

Kansas state legislators are considering legalizing medical cannabis for specific medical conditions. They have introduced a bill Senate Bill 155 Monday, and could thus become the 29th US state to legalize the medical use of cannabis in one form or another.

Supported by the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union), SB 155 is not the first attempt at legalization in the state. It could benefit people suffering from cancer, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, Crohn's disease or Alzheimer's.

The case of Melissa Ragsdale, whose 7-year-old son suffers from epilepsy, went all the way to the State Affairs Committee to request authorization to use cannabidiol, one of cannabis' non-psychoactive molecules often used for its anti-inflammatory properties.

In the latest opinion polls, 68% of Kansas citizens were in favor of legalizing medical cannabis, and 63% for decriminalizing cannabis.

Known as Cannabis Compassion and Care Act of 2017, SB 155 would introduce a patient card system. It would also guarantee patients free access to cannabis, without fear of prosecution for possession or use of medical cannabis.

Parents could grow up to 12 plants and own up to 168 dried cannabis flowers, as long as the cultivation was in a closed, enclosed area.