Four years after Alabama legalized medical cannabis, Dustin Chandler, a prominent advocate for patient rights, urges lawmakers to take immediate action to implement the state’s medical cannabis program. Despite the legalization, patients like Chandler’s daughter, Carly, who suffers from seizures, still lack access to necessary treatment options.
Chandler, who played a key role in passing Carly’s Law in 2014, which allowed limited use of CBD oil for seizure patients, believes that the full medical cannabis program is essential for improving patient care. He emphasizes that while CBD has benefits, many patients, including Carly, could see better outcomes with the addition of THC in their treatment plans.
The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) has faced criticism for its handling of the licensing process, particularly for issuing licenses to companies that have not completed facility inspections. Chandler expressed his disbelief: “It boggles the mind that we are going to award a license to a company that has not proven or can show that they’ve at least started construction on facilities. This is not gardening 101; this is really sophisticated stuff.”
Another major concern for Chandler is the lack of a patient registry. He stated, “There could be product, meaning medicine, and potential help out there for somebody, but there’s not a registry that is available to make sure that the patient qualifies, that they have a qualifying physician. This is something that is written into the law that has not taken place for four long years.”
In a letter to all 35 state senators, Chandler implored them to act swiftly, stating, “It is with a sense of urgency that I write to you today, asking for immediate action to implement the medical cannabis program that was signed into law 1,422 days ago. Patients in Alabama, including my daughter, are still without access to the vital medication that could significantly improve their quality of life.” He described the ongoing delays as a denial of essential healthcare for those in need.
The AMCC defended its actions, stating that injunctions from the circuit court have stalled the licensing process for the last 16 months. They highlighted that powerful interests in Alabama have impacted the progress of the medical cannabis initiative, often prioritizing personal agendas over the needs of patients. The Commission noted that at least three licensed cultivators are now growing cannabis in Alabama and pledged to expedite the issuance of at least one dispensary license as soon as possible.
Despite these claims, advocates like Chandler are losing patience. The ongoing delays represent not only administrative hurdles but also missed opportunities for families seeking crucial medical care. As the situation unfolds, the urgency for legislative intervention remains high, with many families anxiously awaiting access to the treatments they desperately need.
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