HERMANTOWN, MN– For medical marijuana patients in Minnesota, the cost of cannabis is expensive.
“A patient of limited means basically can choose between these expensive oils or other formulations that we put together,” said Dr. Kyle Kingsley, Owner of Green Goods in Hermantown.
But on Monday, the Minnesota House and Senate gave the thumbs up to something new; by agreeing on passing the Health and Human Service Conference Committee Report.
“It allows people to smoke flower for medical purposes, and it’s expanded the use of what those medical reasons would be,” said Representative Julie Sandstede, a DFL’er who represents District 6A.
Dr. Kingsley said allowing patients to smoke cannabis is a game-changer.
“A patient that is currently in the program may be able to get a flower alternative for about half the price. So, it’s going to be a real alternative for many folks that will be cost-effective,” said Dr. Kingsley.
Not only does it drive down costs, but it could also help patients better target their symptoms.
“Many patients have had great success with a single strain or line of genetics with Cannabis. We are going to be able to bring that to the table here in Minnesota,” said Dr. Kingsley.
Representative Sandstede said the passage could help make the medical market safer.
“It isn’t something sold just off the street. What we are seeing so many times now is that many of the street drugs are mixed with other drugs,” said Representative Sandstede.
A bipartisan bill that may lead to more change when it comes to Cannabis in Minnesota.
“It helps us have a conversation about the bigger picture. The longer picture of full legalization,” Representative Sandstede said.
Dr. Kingsley said flower will be available in early 2022, as regulators still have to create rules centered around testing.
