HI HB1624

Establishes a three-year pilot medical marijuana research program within the Department of Public Safety allowing qualified researchers to conduct studies with local medical marijuana patients under state law protection.

Requires research applicants to obtain a permit from the Department of Public Safety, pay a one-time $3,000 fee, and submit annual reports on the purpose, status, and results of their studies.

Mandates all marijuana cultivation occur in enclosed, secured facilities with 24-hour video surveillance and security systems; access limited to principal researchers, employees, and registered qualifying patients serving as caregivers.

Requires research protocols involving human subjects to receive institutional review board approval and comply with Hawaii Revised Statutes chapter 329, part IX.

Takes effect July 1, 2011 and automatically repeals June 30, 2014; amends caregiver registration requirements to allow exceptions for approved research organizations under this Act.