Bill > H3019

This bill establishes a comprehensive Medical Marijuana Program in South Carolina called the "Put Patients First Act" that creates a regulated system for patients with debilitating medical conditions to legally use medical marijuana. The bill creates a confidential state registry where qualifying patients can obtain identification cards after receiving a physician's medical verification, allowing them to purchase and use medical marijuana from state-regulated dispensaries. Qualifying medical conditions include cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, and several other chronic conditions characterized by symptoms like severe pain, seizures, or muscle spasms. The legislation permits registered patients to possess up to two ounces of marijuana and grow up to six plants, with protections against discrimination in employment, healthcare, and child custody proceedings. The bill also establishes strict guidelines for dispensaries, including security requirements, employee background checks, and operational protocols. Physicians are protected from legal or professional penalties when recommending medical marijuana, and patients must have a documented "bona fide physician-patient relationship" to qualify. Caregivers can be designated to assist patients, and they must also undergo background checks and receive state registration. The Department of Public Health will oversee the program, develop regulations, and maintain the confidential patient registry, with the program expected to be fully operational within one year of the act's enactment.

Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3019&session=126&summary=B