SB236 Summary

• Establishes a Medical Cannabis Study Commission with 17 members including physicians in pain management, neurology, palliative care, pediatric neurology, and oncology; attorneys; pharmacists; and other specialists to study medical cannabis regulations by December 1, 2019.

• Extends "Carly's Law" by changing the repeal date from July 1, 2019 to July 1, 2020, allowing continued use of cannabidiol (CBD) with a THC level of no more than 3 percent for treatment of debilitating epileptic conditions as prescribed by UAB Department of Neurology.

• Provides affirmative defense against marijuana possession charges for individuals with debilitating epileptic conditions who possess CBD pursuant to UAB Department prescription, and for parents or caretakers possessing CBD for prescribed individuals.

• Prohibits state agencies and law enforcement from initiating child removal proceedings based solely on authorized CBD possession or use, and grants immunity to UAB Department and affiliated medical personnel for CBD prescription and research activities.

• Clarifies that the law does not authorize individuals or caregivers to grow marijuana for medical use.