The bill proposes the repeal of existing legal provisions that allow individuals to use a medical purpose defense in prosecutions related to cannabis. Specifically, it seeks to eliminate Section 34-20G-51, which previously permitted individuals to assert that their use of cannabis was for medical reasons, provided they met certain criteria, such as having a practitioner’s recommendation and being in possession of limited amounts of cannabis. Additionally, it repeals Section 34-20G-53, which stated that individuals were not required to possess a registry identification card to raise this affirmative defense.

By removing these sections, the bill effectively removes the legal framework that supported the medical use of cannabis as a defense in legal proceedings, thereby making it more challenging for individuals to justify their cannabis use on medical grounds in court. This legislative change reflects a significant shift in the state's approach to cannabis-related offenses, potentially impacting those who previously relied on medical necessity as a defense.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/28/2025: 34-20G-51, 34-20G-53