The Department of Health responded by saying that they’re working ‘diligently” to implement the new law. “We remain committed to moving this process forward,” they said in an email obtained by the Associated Press, “and will do so in an expedient and thoughtful manner.”
The law was passed to benefit patients who suffer from major neurological disorders, including epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. In addition, patients who are dying from cancer would be allowed to use marijuana treatments under “right-to-try” laws.
These provisions, signed by Governor Scott, require the state to designate several institutions as “dispensaries” in what was to be a gentle phase-in to full production. In 2016, the need for dispensaries was ratcheted up by voters who elected to expand eligibility for medical marijuana treatment to people suffering from a bevy other diseases, like ALS and Crohn’s Disease.
Opponents of the state’s execution of the law say that having so few dispensaries in the state will raise the price of marijuana treatment beyond the reach of many patients. Because the state is so large, transporting the marijuana to more rural areas of the state has also proven to be a problem. In addition, several local governments are against having marijuana nurseries in their counties.
