S.B. 2718 Summary

• Expands the definition of "qualifying patient" for Hawaii's medical cannabis program to include any person aged 65 or older, regardless of whether they have a debilitating medical condition.

• Exempts patients aged 65 and older from the requirement of physician certification that potential benefits of medical cannabis outweigh health risks (Section 329-122(c)).

• Maintains existing requirements for patients under 65, including diagnosis of a debilitating medical condition and physician/advanced practice registered nurse certification.

• Updates references throughout Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 329D to reflect the new elderly patient category alongside existing "qualifying patient" and "qualifying out-of-state patient" provisions.

• Takes effect January 1, 2050.