The US. House of Representatives on Monday, April 4, passed a bipartisan marijuana scientific research bill. The bill removes barriers to research on Cannabis, allowing scientists to access herb from dispensaries of legal states, reports Forbes.
The Medical Marijuana Research Act passed the House on an overwhelming 343-75 vote. All of the ”No” votes came from Republicans, reports The Hill.
Democratic Rep. Earl Blumenauer of Oregon introduced the bill in October 2021. It is co-sponsored by 11 Representatives, both Democrats and Republicans.
Bill Sponsors Include Some Weed Opponents
“These actions highlight the need for increased research about safety and efficacy of the marijuana products being consumed by millions of Americans,” said Democratic House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone of New Jersey.
Even some opponents of legalizing marijuana for adult use admitted that the federal government might as well allow research into medical marijuana with the majority of states permitting it.
For instance, sponsors even included GOP Rep. Andy Harris, known for his particularly vociferous (and, of course, obnoxious) opposition to legal weed.
Research Bill’s Fate Uncertain In The Senate
The bill would ease the process by which researchers apply for approval to study marijuana. It ensures a sufficient supply of weed intended for research, and places deadlines on federal agencies to consider applications on time.
Furthermore, it would also authorize scientists to access Cannabis flower and other products from state-approved marijuana programs and stocked in dispensaries.
The Senate may negotiate a deal on the bill to send to President Joe Biden.
Both the House and Senate passed earlier versions of the bill in 2020. The Senate also approved a separate marijuana research bill last month, reports Marijuana Moment.
