Title:
Gov. Gregoire signs SB 5798 into law!
Message:
Great news! Gov. Gregoire has signed SB 5798 into law! Washington’s newest improvement on the medical marijuana program expands the universe of health care providers who are legally allowed to recommend medical marijuana. Washington will now recognize as valid medical marijuana recommendations signed by non-physician prescribers such as physician assistants, osteopathic physician assistants, naturopaths, and advanced registered nurse practitioners.
This important improvement on Washington’s medical marijuana program, sponsored by Sen. Kohl-Welles, recognizes that all four of the above mentioned health care professionals are entrusted with the responsibility of prescribing controlled substances if and when their patients need them. Allowing responsible health care professionals to also recommend medical marijuana — a substance far safer and less addictive than many Schedule II opiates — simply makes sense. Furthermore, many patients, especially those in rural areas, have limited access to physicians, so they receive their health care from other professionals, such as advanced practice registered nurses. With this important change, access to a physician will no longer be a prerequisite to obtaining a medical marijuana recommendation.
Much thanks and gratitude are in order for both Sen. Kohl-Welles and Gov. Gregorie for sponsoring and signing this legislation. It is always a good day when legislators and executives listen to logic and reason and pass sensible marijuana policy. Many thanks also to the ACLU of Washington.
Finally, you deserve a great, big "thank you" as well! Nothing gets the attention of lawmakers more than constituent participation. We had a huge response to our request for calls to the governor. Thank you so very much for making those vital calls. I sure do appreciate it, and I am sure the many Washingtonians who will benefit from this change do as well.
Thanks for all your hard and good work.
