The Mississippi House of Representatives voted Tuesday to concur with measures that would expand medical cannabis access and allow clinical trials of ibogaine, sending both bills to the governor for consideration.
The legislation related to medical cannabis permits terminally ill patients to try the drug if all other treatments have failed. A petition from the patient’s doctor must be submitted to the State Health Officer, who has final approval authority. An amendment added during Senate proceedings allows out-of-state residents diagnosed within Mississippi to obtain medical cannabis cards if they have been in the state for fewer than 45 days, a move supported by some lawmakers as legal and consistent with practices in other states.
State Rep. Lee Yancey, a Republican, noted that more than 30 U.S. states permit out-of-state patients to access medical cannabis. The House approved the measure 102-14.
The second bill, HB 314, authorizes Mississippi to establish clinical trials for ibogaine, a psychoactive drug showing promise in treating PTSD and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Currently, individuals seeking ibogaine treatment must travel abroad, such as to Mexico. Because of potential cardiac risks, the treatment requires medical supervision and an initial evaluation.
State Rep. Samuel Creekmore, a Republican, explained that the Senate amended the bill to remove redundant language concerning FDA trial applications, making the process more cost-effective. The House approved the amended bill 115-3. Both measures now go to the governor for review.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
