Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey filed a budget proposal Wednesday that would allow military veterans to access the state's medical cannabis program without obtaining a physician's recommendation—a requirement that remains in place for all other patients.
The provision, tucked into Healey's broader budget plan, would authorize the state Cannabis Control Commission to "issue a medical registration card to a veteran receiving their health care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs," according to the budget language first reported by Marijuana Moment.
Currently, Massachusetts requires all medical cannabis patients to secure a written certification from a licensed physician before registering with the state program. Veterans would be exempt from this step under Healey's proposal, though they would still need to register with the commission and obtain a medical cannabis card.
The VA Connection
The proposal addresses a longstanding friction point between state medical cannabis programs and federal VA healthcare. Because cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, VA physicians are prohibited from recommending or prescribing medical cannabis to their patients, even in states where programs are legal.
This creates a catch-22 for veterans who receive their healthcare exclusively through the VA system. They must seek out a non-VA physician willing to provide a cannabis recommendation—often at their own expense—before they can access state medical marijuana programs.
Massachusetts would join a handful of states that have created workarounds for veteran patients. New Mexico, for instance, allows veterans to self-certify their PTSD diagnosis to qualify for medical cannabis, while other states have explored similar exemptions.
Budget Timing and Industry Impact
Healey's budget proposal comes as Massachusetts continues to refine its dual-market cannabis system, which includes both medical and adult-use programs. The state launched recreational sales in 2018, but the medical program has maintained distinct advantages, including lower tax rates and access to higher-potency products.
The medical cannabis market in Massachusetts generated roughly $180 million in sales during 2023, according to Cannabis Control Commission data, though that figure has declined as the adult-use market has matured. Medical patients numbered approximately 75,000 as of late 2023.
Veteran-specific provisions have gained traction in state legislatures nationwide as lawmakers seek to address both the VA's federal restrictions and growing research into cannabis for conditions common among military veterans, including PTSD, chronic pain, and traumatic brain injury.
What's Next
The budget proposal now heads to the Massachusetts Legislature for consideration. Budget negotiations typically extend through the spring, with a final spending plan expected before the start of the fiscal year on July 1.
Veteran advocacy groups have not yet issued public statements on the proposal. The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission, which would implement the policy if approved, declined to comment on pending legislation.
If enacted, the provision would take effect alongside the fiscal year 2026 budget. Veterans would still need to pay the state's medical cannabis registration fee, currently $50 for a one-year card, though the state offers fee waivers for patients receiving certain public benefits.
This article is based on original reporting by ganjapreneur.com.
