In response to a series of investigative reports by Spotlight PA, Pennsylvania state lawmakers are taking steps to strengthen oversight of the state’s medical marijuana program. A new bill, which includes measures for increased doctor oversight, has passed the state House with strong bipartisan support. The legislative action comes after concerns were raised during a budget hearing, where state Senator Rosemary Brown questioned how the state ensures that prescribing practices do not abuse patient care standards.
Spotlight PA’s investigations uncovered alarming trends within the medical marijuana program, revealing that a small number of doctors are responsible for approving a disproportionately large number of medical marijuana cards. Furthermore, the investigations highlighted that the Pennsylvania Department of Health rarely intervenes to block doctors from joining the program, even when they have prior disciplinary issues.
State Representative Tim Twardzik, who is advocating for the new legislation, emphasized the necessity of providing the health department with clear authority to ensure patients receive adequate care. Under the existing medical marijuana law enacted in 2016, patients must obtain a doctor’s approval to acquire a medical marijuana card. Doctors are required to complete a four-hour training course and apply for certification through the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
Twardzik’s proposal would grant the health department specific powers to impose various conditions on doctors who wish to certify patients for medical marijuana use. This could include placing doctors on probation, limiting the number of certifications they can issue, mandating supervision by another practitioner, and imposing reporting requirements. Additionally, the department would have the authority to set any conditions deemed necessary to protect the health and safety of patients.
State Representative Arvind Venkat, a physician from Allegheny County who does not issue medical marijuana certifications, expressed his support for Twardzik’s proposal. He acknowledged the real concerns regarding the current program and the need for enhanced oversight from the Department of Health, stating that it is important to confront these issues honestly.
The state House Health Committee unanimously approved Twardzik’s proposal as an amendment to a bill focused on marijuana lab testing, sponsored by state Representative Dan Frankel. Frankel pointed out that while labs are required to test products, the department currently lacks the authority to oversee these labs or verify the accuracy of their results. During the committee meeting, he also highlighted the ongoing debate over the legalization of recreational cannabis, noting significant disagreements on that front.
