A new federal bill to give veterans access to medical marijuana is coming

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Lawmakers on Capitol Hill continue their efforts to give military vets access to medical marijuana

In light of the data showing how cannabis benefits veterans, it is hard to believe that federal cannabis prohibition is still a reality. This is especially true since cannabis has the potential to be a game-changing and life-saving option for veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It looks like the scenario is being analyzed once again and a bipartisan movement wants military veterans to have access to medical marijuana.

Veterans suffering from PTSD and chronic pain are usually prescribed medications such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, and tranquilizers. Unfortunately, these drug cocktails can create a “zombie-like” effect, leaving the patient feeling numb and detached from everyday life.

The effort by sponsors of a reform bill has begun to circulate through a letter asking congressional colleagues for support. If all goes according to plan, the measure may be introduced in Congress in the near future.

Representatives Brian Mast and Earl Blumenauer are sponsoring the Veterans Equal Access Act. The co-chairs of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus are seeking to allow Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) physicians the ability to prescribe marijuana to their patients in states where it is legal. Through the letter, the lawmakers said the legislation would be key to providing equal access to medical marijuana for veterans residing in states where it has been given the green light.

“Most states with state-legal medical cannabis programs require some sort of recommendation or approval from a medical provider for patients to enroll in the program,” it says. “However, VA policy prevents VA physicians and care providers from any participation, including helping with the required paperwork or forms.”