HI HB668

Requires the Department of Health to submit a request for an exception to federal regulations (21 C.F.R. 1307.03) by September 1, 2021, arguing that Hawaii's medical cannabis program does not conflict with federal drug laws and requesting written acknowledgement that federal Schedule I marijuana restrictions do not apply to state-authorized medical cannabis use.

Requires the Department of Health to submit a petition for federal rulemaking (21 C.F.R. 1308.43) proposing a new regulation stating that the Schedule I listing of marijuana does not apply to state-authorized marijuana use and that persons complying with state law are exempt from federal registration.

Addresses conflicts between state medical marijuana laws (enacted in 2000 under Act 228) and federal controlled substances laws that create hardships for patients in employment, housing, custody disputes, and insurance matters, and create criminal exposure for state-authorized dispensaries.

Takes effect upon approval.