The "Sergeant Kitzhaber Medical Cannabis Act" seeks to create a legal framework for the medical use of cannabis in Idaho by introducing a new chapter in Title 39 of the Idaho Code. This legislation establishes provisions for the possession, transportation, and use of cannabis under specific conditions, including the creation of an electronic verification system for medical cannabis patient cards. It outlines qualifying conditions for medical cannabis use, sets regulations for practitioner registration and training, and clarifies that insurers are not obligated to cover cannabis-related treatments. The bill also amends existing laws to remove certain provisions from Schedule I of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act and revises Schedule II provisions, ensuring legal protections for compliant individuals.

In addition to the medical cannabis provisions, the bill addresses the classification and penalties associated with controlled substances, introducing new substances and clarifying penalties for violations. It specifies penalties for various schedules of controlled substances, including felonies for significant quantities of drugs like marijuana and methamphetamine, with mandatory minimum sentences. The bill also modifies the definition of "commercial feed" to clarify included and excluded materials, particularly concerning animal remedies containing industrial hemp. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance regulatory oversight of both medical cannabis and controlled substances, ensuring patient access while addressing emerging drug trends effectively.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 37-2705, 37-2707, 37-2732, 37-2732B, 25-2703