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HB 1204

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2025 Regular Session Introduced by Maureen Bauer

House Bill 1204 clarifies how patients using medical cannabis can recover costs for necessary medical care, ensuring clearer guidelines for expense reimbursement.

First reading: referred to Committee on Veterans Affairs and Public Safety
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1204

Summary of House Bill 1204: Relating to Medical Cannabis

Bill Number: HB 1204
Introduced On: January 22, 2025
Status: Referred to HLT, CPC, JHA
Classification: Bill
Subject: Medical Cannabis, Primary Caregivers

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1204 aims to amend existing Arkansas law regarding the recovery of damages for necessary medical care, treatment, or services rendered, specifically in the context of medical cannabis. The bill seeks to clarify the conditions under which plaintiffs can claim damages related to medical care, ensuring that individuals who have incurred costs for necessary medical services can recover those expenses.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Arkansas Code § 16-64-120: The bill proposes changes to the existing statute governing the recovery of damages. The key provisions include:
    • Subsection (a): Allows plaintiffs to claim any rate of damages they are entitled to for their established cause of action.
    • Subsection (b): Specifies that recovery for past necessary medical care, treatment, or services includes only those costs that have been paid or remain unpaid, for which the plaintiff or a third party is legally responsible.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:
    • Patients: Individuals who utilize medical cannabis and incur costs for necessary medical care will benefit from clearer guidelines on recovering those expenses.
    • Primary Caregivers: Those who provide care to patients using medical cannabis may also be impacted by the changes in the recovery process for medical expenses.
    • Healthcare Providers: Medical professionals and facilities providing care related to medical cannabis may see changes in how they bill and receive payment for services rendered.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 22, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • January 27, 2025: Referred to multiple committees including HLT, CPC, and JHA.
  • January 29, 2025: Passed the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • February 5, 2025: Returned by the Committee with a recommendation to pass.
  • February 6, 2025: Passed by the Senate and returned to the House.
  • February 11, 2025: Notification that HB 1204 is now Act 28.

Conclusion

House Bill 1204 represents a significant step in clarifying the legal framework for recovering damages related to medical cannabis in Arkansas. By establishing clearer guidelines for plaintiffs, the bill aims to enhance access to necessary medical care and ensure that individuals can recover costs associated with their treatment. The bill's passage through the legislative process indicates a growing recognition of the importance of medical cannabis in patient care.

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

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