Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey (D) filed a budget proposal Wednesday that includes language allowing veterans to register for the state’s medical cannabis program without a doctor’s recommendation.
The provision addressing veterans and medical cannabis, first reported by Marijuana Moment, specifies that the state “may issue a medical registration card to a veteran receiving their health care at a federal Veterans Administration facility who provides official documentation from the Veterans Administration indicating a diagnosis of a debilitating medical condition, without the need for a written or electronic certification from a healthcare professional.”
The governor said the supplemental budget proposal contains critical health care and public safety investments.
Cannabis is already available for adults aged 21 and older in Massachusetts. Under the current rules, patients in the medical cannabis program must have a doctor’s recommendation in order to qualify.
“While President Trump is driving up costs with his war and tariffs, in Massachusetts, we’re doing everything we can to make life more affordable for people and businesses. This budget will lower costs at the gas pump, when buying concert and sports tickets, and on energy bills, while also making sure families can continue to access the health care, food assistance and services they rely on.” — Healey, in a press release
Meanwhile, Massachusetts voters will consider a ballot initiative this November to repeal the adult-use industry.
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