HB 1359 Summary

• Establishes a cannabinoid medicine program within the University of Hawaii School of Medicine to address unmet educational and research needs related to the state-authorized medical use of cannabis among nearly 30,000 registered medical cannabis patients in Hawaii.

• Requires the program to include at least one non-paid associate professor position filled by a medical or osteopathic doctor certified as a cannabinoid medicine specialist, with all positions appointed by the School of Medicine dean.

• Program activities include coordinating with medical cannabis testing and research programs, developing cannabinoid medicine education in the medical school curriculum, providing continuing medical education to physicians, and establishing standardized analytical testing methods with the Department of Health.

• Program shall work with the Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation to ensure regulatory compliance by patients, laboratories, and dispensaries.

• Takes effect upon approval.