Hawaii’s medical marijuana caregivers have received a lifeline through an executive order signed by Governor Josh Green. The order, which took effect on Wednesday, is designed to safeguard access to medical cannabis for qualifying patients following the expiration of the state’s caregiver program on December 31.
Governor Green, a physician, emphasized the importance of continuity in patient care, noting that the measure prevents potential negative health outcomes. “We must protect the patients and their caregivers when the caregivers cultivate cannabis for a patient in a manner that fits squarely within the spirit of the medical-cannabis law,” Green said in a statement.
Bridging the Gap After Program Expiration
The caregiver program’s expiration had left many patients and caregivers in limbo. Patients registered with Hawaii’s Medical Cannabis Registry Program must designate a specific cannabis cultivator. However, with the program’s expiration, patients faced uncertainty about accessing their preferred treatment sources.
Some caregivers, wary of potential legal repercussions, ceased operations, while patients preemptively removed their primary caregivers from state records. This disruption prompted Governor Green to take action, urging state lawmakers to create a long-term solution that ensures caregivers can continue serving patients in critical need.
The executive order clarifies that primary caregivers acting within the law as it stood before January 1, 2025, are not committing significant violations. This directive aims to maintain a system of care while addressing broader regulatory concerns.
Caregiver Contributions in Numbers
Hawaii’s Medical Cannabis Registry Program data illustrates the program’s scope and impact:
- Registered caregivers (as of Nov. 30): Over 2,600
- Registered medical marijuana patients: 30,035
- Cultivation allowances per caregiver: Up to 10 plants per patient
- Usable marijuana limits: 4 ounces at a time
These figures underscore the importance of caregivers in providing consistent access to medical cannabis for thousands of patients across the state.
Addressing Misuse While Prioritizing Patient Care
The executive order also tasks the Department of Health and the Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation with redirecting resources to tackle issues such as:
- Diversion of cannabis from the state-regulated medical marijuana program.
- Caregivers operating as commercial enterprises.
- Caregivers cultivating cannabis for more than one patient.
- Cannabis cultivation at facilities shared by more than five patients.
This balanced approach aims to curb misuse without penalizing caregivers who comply with the law and prioritize patient care.
Looking Ahead: Legislative Action Needed
Governor Green’s order is a temporary measure, signaling an urgent need for legislative intervention. Lawmakers are expected to address these challenges comprehensively, ensuring Hawaii’s medical marijuana framework supports patients while addressing regulatory concerns.