Legislation sponsored by Senator Declan O’Scanlon that would allow patients to be authorized for medical marijuana by telemedicine received final legislative approval Thursday.
“This will establish a more convenient process for New Jersey residents who rely on medical cannabis to alleviate pain and treat their medical conditions,” said O’Scanlon (R-13). “When advisable, medical practitioners will be able to prescribe therapeutic marijuana electronically, without requiring an in-office visit with the patients.
“Technology that has significantly changed the medical industry will improve the everyday health and wellness of eligible New Jersey residents.”
O’Scanlon’s bill, S-619, passed both houses of the Legislature overwhelmingly, but was conditionally vetoed by the Governor in April.
During Thursday’s session, the Senate accepted the Governor’s recommendations by a vote of 37-1.
“Medical cannabis can be an effective treatment for an ever-expanding list of conditions, even replacing highly addictive opioid medications for some people,” said O’Scanlon. “Telemedicine is the ‘healthcare of the future,’ increasing access to quality, cost-effective medical care and treatment through modern digital technology. Combined, these advancements can better meet the health needs of some patients by eliminating the burden of difficult and inconvenient office visits or the need to miss a day of work.”