The S.C. Compassionate Care Act — S. 423 — would create a well-regulated medical cannabis program to allow seriously ill individuals to register with DHEC to use medical cannabis when recommended by their physicians and dispensed by a therapeutic cannabis pharmacy. Thirty-seven states — including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi — give their residents this medical freedom.
The Compassionate Care Act does not allow cannabis smoking, home cultivation, or raw (flower or leaf) cannabis.
Qualifying for the Program. To qualify, patients must have a qualifying medical condition and a written certification issued by a physician with whom they have a bona fide relationship. Patients must apply to the health department (DHEC) for a registration card, which includes their photo.
Certifying Physicians
Limitations and Prohibitions
Therapeutic Cannabis Pharmacies
Medical Cannabis Business Licensing and Regulation
Protecting Children from Exposure
Legal Protections
Finances
Research and Reporting
Timeline
Sunset. The law would expire eight years after the first sale from a therapeutic cannabis pharmacy unless the legislature re-enacts it. At least one year prior to repeal, DHEC will issue an extensive written report on the program and public comments.