Bill to double therapeutic cannabis purchase limit draws patient access and safety arguments

Representative Heath Howard introduced HB190, which would increase the possession and purchase limit for therapeutic cannabis patients from two to four ounces. He said many cardholders travel long distances to reach the state’s limited number of dispensaries and that higher purchase limits would reduce trips and help patients who make high‑concentration edibles at home.

Jerry Kanirk, chair of the Therapeutic Cannabis Oversight Board, described the change as primarily an accessibility measure for rural and mobility‑limited patients. "This will make it a lot easier for our patients," he said, adding that the board voted to support the measure. Kanirk also said clinicians and patient advocates told the board that larger quantities permit more economical home preparation of edibles and fewer trips for those in pain or on fixed incomes.

Supporters framed the proposal as a modest, patient‑focused fix that does not expand qualifying conditions or the program itself. Representative Howard and multiple patient witnesses said the bill is not intended to increase diversion but to reduce the burden of repeated long trips.

Opponents and some committee members asked for more data on how much patient costs would fall and whether ATCs already have unused indoor capacity. Sue Hamola of Smart Approaches to Marijuana suggested lawmakers request line‑item cost and profit data from ATCs before changing limits.

The transcript shows testimony and questioning but does not record a public roll‑call committee vote in the hearing transcript.