HB 688 Summary

• Removes marijuana from Schedule I controlled substances and creates new sections (195.580-195.598) establishing a medical marijuana program for patients with debilitating medical conditions including cancer, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, severe pain, seizures, and other physician-approved conditions.

• Allows qualifying patients with written physician certification to possess an adequate supply of marijuana (up to 3 mature plants, 4 immature plants, and 1 ounce of usable marijuana per mature plant) without criminal penalty.

• Establishes a registry identification card system administered by the Department of Health and Senior Services, with annual renewal and a registration fee not to exceed $100 per patient.

• Permits registered nonprofit organizations to legally cultivate, distribute, and dispense medical marijuana to qualified patients and their designated primary caregivers after filing registration statements with the state.

• Subjects the entire act to voter approval through a ballot referendum election scheduled for November 2014, with the law becoming effective only if approved by a majority of votes cast.