Iowa has one of the most restrictive medical cannabis programs in the country. There’s a push in the Iowa Legislature to double the number of cannabidiol dispensaries that can operate in the state.
Iowa license plates have become a common site at weed dispensaries across state lines. The state only allows cannabis preparations in medical contexts and forbids raw flower completely. While recreational use is off the table, new legislation aims to moderately expand the existing program.
A bill advanced in a state Senate subcommittee on Thursday morning that would double the number of medical dispensaries allowed to operate in the state. The jump—from five licenses to 10—opens up the market potentially to locations outside the five located in metros: Des Moines, Iowa City, Omaha, Sioux City, and Waterloo.
Currently, Iowa’s medical cannabidiol program authorizes the manufacture and sale of products that contain both CBD and THC for medical cannabis products. Qualifying conditions range from chronic pain to Crohn’s disease. A patient must obtain written certification from their primary care provider. Card fees cost around $100, with reduced pricing for patients receiving social security disability benefits, supplemental security insurance payments, or are enrolled in a medical assistance program.
The bill is now eligible for consideration by the full state Senate Commerce Committee. If approved by the committee, the bill would go before the full Senate for a vote. It must pass both the Senate and House and receive a signature from the governor before becoming law.
