FL H0353

Proposes constitutional amendments (Article X, Section 28 and Article XII, Section 32) to allow medical use of cannabis by patients with debilitating medical conditions diagnosed by a physician in a bona fide physician-patient relationship.

Provides an affirmative defense to criminal charges for patients and primary caregivers engaged in medical cannabis use, and protects physicians from penalties for advising patients about medical cannabis or documenting patient need.

Restricts medical cannabis use to amounts medically necessary (with legislature to establish presumptive maximum amounts), prohibits use in plain view or public places, and bans use that endangers others' health or well-being.

Requires additional restrictions for patients under 18 years of age, including diagnosis by two physicians, parental written consent, and parental control over acquisition and dosing.

Mandates legislature enact implementing legislation by May 30, 2013, establish criminal penalties for fraudulent medical condition claims, protect seized property from forfeiture absent conviction, and prohibit denial of custody, employment accommodation, insurance coverage, or professional licensing based on compliant medical cannabis use; amendments effective July 1, 2013.