MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) —Vermont lawmakers have approved a modest expansion to the state’s medical marijuana program.
The expansion gives people access to the drug for a wider range of diseases and allowing more dispensary locations.
The House gave the bill preliminary approval on a voice vote Monday. It passed with a 130-16 vote Tuesday morning.
The Senate has already approved the bill.
Vermont has four licensed dispensaries. The approved measure would allow each existing dispensary to open two more locations in under-served areas.
People suffering from Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and post-traumatic stress disorder will also be able to access marijuana under the measure, and patients will be able to grow marijuana and purchase it if they wish.
In the previous version of the bill, patients had to choose between growing it themselves or buying it from a dispensary.
The House is also expected to vote Tuesday evening on a separate bill to legalize recreational marijuana for adults. That measure has been delayed for weeks. A preliminary vote is expected Tuesday night and if it passes, a final vote would come Wednesday.
credit:mynbc5.com
