The "Medical Cannabis Qualifying Patient Application Rulemaking Approval Resolution of 2026" proposes amendments to the District of Columbia's regulations regarding medical cannabis patient identification cards. Specifically, the resolution seeks to extend the validity of temporary medical cannabis patient identification cards from thirty days to ninety days, addressing concerns that the current thirty-day period is insufficient for the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) to process applications. Additionally, the resolution eliminates the requirement for applicants to submit a passport-style photograph with their application, which has been deemed unnecessary and burdensome, potentially deterring patients from registering for medical cannabis.

The resolution was transmitted by Mayor Muriel Bowser to the Council of the District of Columbia for approval following a vote by the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board on July 16, 2025. The proposed changes aim to streamline the application process for qualifying patients and ensure continued access to medical cannabis, thereby reducing the risk of patients turning to unregulated sources. The resolution is set to take effect immediately upon adoption by the Council.