If our local congressman has his way, the federal government will soon acknowledge state laws that legalize medical marijuana.

U.S. Representative Morgan Griffith of Salem has introduced a bill that would designate marijuana a Schedule II drug under the federal Controlled Substances Act.

Here are the details of Rep. Griffith’s bill and how it could medical marijuana in our state and nationwide.

New Federal Bill on Medical Marijuana Proposed

Griffith, a Republican, admits that other conservatives may raise their eyebrows at his proposal. But the bill, called the Legitimate Use of Medicinal Marijuana Act, is “a conservative answer” in Griffith’s eyes.

What Would the Federal Medical Marijuana Bill Do?

The bill would federally classify marijuana on the same level as painkillers like hydrocodone, illegal substances like cocaine and methamphetamine, and prescription drugs like Adderall and Ritalin. Changing the classification from Schedule I would remove marijuana from the list of drugs that aren’t presently accepted for medical usage.

How Does This Affect Virginia & Other States With Legal Medical Marijuana?

Griffith’s bill would enable scientists to conduct more research and doctors to prescribe medical marijuana in states that have legalized the drug. Currently, doctors are only able to “recommend” medical marijuana in states that have legalized the drug since it is not legalized federally. Although Virginia law doesn’t permit the sale of medical marijuana, there is a 1979 law on the books that allows marijuana prescription to treat cancer and glaucoma.

The proposed bill would only affect states that have currently legalized medical marijuana and would not allow recreational marijuana usage. Supporters say that bringing the Drug Enforcement Administration and Food and Drug Administration would enable marijuana usage for legitimate medical needs while ensuring that the drug was properly regulated.

How Will Federally Legalized Medical Marijuana Affect Your Workplace?

Medical marijuana laws can be difficult to navigate in the workplace, especially when you’re trying to carry out drug-free policies while upholding laws. ARCpoint Labs of Salem can help you develop and implement drug testing policies that work.

To learn more about our drug testing services, contact us online or call us today at (540) 404-1204.