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Bill

Bill

A 913

Authorizes medical cannabis for treatment of sickle cell anemia.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Reginald Atkins and 7 co-sponsors

Bill A 913 allows medical cannabis use for sickle cell anemia patients in New Jersey, offering a new treatment option to alleviate pain and improve quality of life.

Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee
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Bill Summary · A 913

Summary of Bill A 913: Authorizes Medical Cannabis for Treatment of Sickle Cell Anemia

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 913
  • Title: Authorizes medical cannabis for treatment of sickle cell anemia.
  • Status: Reported out of Senate Committee, 2nd Reading
  • Introduced: January 09, 2024
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Disease, Marijuana

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 913 aims to expand the use of medical cannabis in New Jersey by specifically authorizing its use for patients suffering from sickle cell anemia. This legislation seeks to provide an alternative treatment option for individuals with this painful and chronic condition, potentially improving their quality of life.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Existing Law: The bill amends P.L.2009, c.307, which governs the medical use of cannabis in New Jersey, to include sickle cell anemia as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis treatment.
  • Definitions: The bill clarifies various terms related to medical cannabis, including:
    • "Cannabis": Defined as per the New Jersey Controlled Dangerous Substances Act.
    • "Health Care Practitioner": Specifies the qualifications required for practitioners who can prescribe medical cannabis.
    • "Designated Caregiver": Outlines the criteria for individuals who can assist patients in using medical cannabis.

Impact

  • Patients: Individuals diagnosed with sickle cell anemia will gain access to medical cannabis as a treatment option, which may help alleviate pain and other symptoms associated with the disease.
  • Health Care Providers: Physicians and health care practitioners will have the authority to prescribe medical cannabis for this condition, expanding their treatment options.
  • Cannabis Industry: The bill may lead to increased demand for medical cannabis products, potentially benefiting dispensaries and related businesses.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 09, 2024: Introduced in the Assembly and referred to the Assembly Health Committee.
  • March 06, 2025: Reported and referred to the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
  • March 20, 2025: Reported out of Assembly Committee and passed the Assembly with a vote of 71-2-4.
  • May 22, 2025: Received in the Senate and referred to the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.
  • November 13, 2025: Reported out of Senate Committee and moved to the 2nd Reading.

Related Legislation

  • S 2392: A companion bill that may address similar issues or provisions related to medical cannabis and sickle cell anemia.

This summary provides an overview of Bill A 913, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on patients and the healthcare system in New Jersey.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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