Florida Lawmakers Vote to Slash Medical Cannabis ID Costs for Veterans

The Florida House Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee last week approved a bill to reduce the cost for veterans to obtain a medical cannabis ID from $75 to $15, the Miami Times reports.

House Bill 887, co-sponsored by Republican Reps. Susan Valdés and Michelle Salzman, passed the subcommittee unanimously with bipartisan support.

The bill would affect all honorably discharged veterans who can prove their status, and the changes would take effect on July 1.

Rep. Valdés called it a “simple bill with a very big impact.”

“Considering how many veterans in the past have been on medications such as opioids and things of this nature, this is an opportunity to assist veterans being able to obtain a much better way of dealing with their medical issues. And by reducing the costs of access, it is not symbolic for the veterans we serve. It directly moves a costly barrier that often keeps the already underserved veterans from participating in a program that can support their health stability and their overall wellbeing.” — Valdés, in a statement

Rep. Mitch Rosenwald (D) called the proposal “fiscally sound,” and said it is “the least we can do” for veterans experiencing PTSD and other mental health challenges.

The proposal will be considered by the House Health Care Budget Subcommittee next.

An identical proposal in the Senate was introduced on January 13 by Sen. Keith Truenow (R).