HB 642 Summary

• Authorizes medical use of marijuana for qualifying patients diagnosed with debilitating medical conditions including cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, ALS, Crohn's disease, Alzheimer's disease, seizures, and severe muscle spasms.

• Establishes registry identification card system administered by Alabama Department of Public Health allowing qualifying patients to possess up to 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana and cultivate up to 6 plants in an enclosed, locked facility.

• Protects registered patients, primary caregivers, physicians, and nonprofit compassion centers from arrest, prosecution, and penalties for medical marijuana use in compliance with the act.

• Creates nonprofit compassion center program to supply marijuana to registered patients, with centers limited to 6 plants per designated patient and prohibited from dispensing more than 2.5 ounces at one time.

• Prohibits smoking marijuana in public places, operating vehicles while under influence, possession in schools or correctional facilities, and use by persons without qualifying medical conditions.