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GM 1146

Informing the Legislature that on May 14, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1429 SD2 HD3 CD1 (ACT 046).

2025 Regular Session

Act 046 enhances medical cannabis access for patients in Hawaii, clarifies caregiver roles, and introduces penalties for regulatory violations to ensure safe practices.

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Bill Summary · GM 1146

Summary of GM 1146: Informing the Legislature of Act 046

Bill Number: GM 1146
Title: Informing the Legislature that on May 14, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1429 SD2 HD3 CD1 (ACT 046)
Status: Received
Introduced: May 14, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 046

Purpose and Intent

GM 1146 serves as a formal notification to the legislature that the Governor of Hawaii, Josh Green, M.D., signed into law Senate Bill 1429 (SB 1429), which is now designated as Act 046. The primary intent of Act 046 is to enhance and clarify the existing framework for medical cannabis use in Hawaii, ensuring that qualifying patients have multiple avenues to access medical cannabis safely and legally.

Key Provisions of Act 046

  1. Access to Medical Cannabis:

    • Act 046 reaffirms the state's commitment to providing access to medical cannabis for patients with debilitating medical conditions. It emphasizes that the establishment of dispensaries should not replace existing access routes for patients.

  2. Regulation of Violations:

    • The Act introduces penalties for violations related to medical cannabis regulations. Individuals found in violation may face fines of up to $5,000 for each separate offense, with each day of continued violation constituting a separate offense.

  3. Administrative Penalties:

    • The Department of Health is empowered to impose administrative penalties for violations, which may include cease and desist orders or corrective action orders. Affected individuals can contest these penalties through a hearing process.

  4. Primary Caregiver Registration:

    • The Act clarifies the responsibilities of primary caregivers, allowing them to care for up to five qualifying patients. It also permits the registration of two primary caregivers for minor patients, provided they are the legal guardians.

  5. Authorized Sources of Medical Cannabis:

    • Patients can obtain medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries, cultivate their own cannabis, or receive it from a primary caregiver. The law specifies that cultivation must not exceed an adequate supply for the patient.

Impact of the Bill

  • Patients: The bill directly affects qualifying patients by ensuring they have multiple options for accessing medical cannabis, which is crucial for those unable to grow their own due to physical limitations or lack of space.

  • Caregivers: Primary caregivers will have clearer guidelines and responsibilities, enhancing their ability to support patients in need.

  • Regulatory Framework: The introduction of penalties and administrative processes aims to strengthen compliance and ensure safe practices within the medical cannabis program.

Procedural Aspects

  • Date of Signing: The bill was signed into law on May 14, 2025.
  • Legislative Action: GM 1146 was received by the legislature on the same day it was signed.

In summary, GM 1146 serves as an important legislative proclamation that signals the ongoing evolution of Hawaii's medical cannabis laws, aimed at improving patient access and regulatory clarity.

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

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