Maine lawmakers overturned Governor Paul LePage’s veto to pass a Medical Cannabis reform bill this past Monday.

Legislators in the House voted 119-23 and in the Senate 25-8 to reject a veto handed down 3 days earlier by Governor Paul LePage.

The lawmakers reiterated their support for sweeping reforms expected to significantly expand access to medical cannabis by completely eliminating the existing list of qualifying conditions.

“Maine’s medical cannabis program is already one of the best in the country,” said state Sen. Eric Brakey, Auburn Republican, and co-chairman of the health and human services committee that helped write the reforms.

“The passage of L.D. 1539 will make it even stronger. More access and choice for patients. More flexibility for legal businesses. And more integrity to the overall program.”

What happens now?

Senator Eric Brakey says that the new law will give towns and cities more control over Medical Cannabis providers. It will allow municipalities to work with small businesses to ensure everyone is following the law properly.

Governor LePage has been trying for years to shut down the will of Maine’s voters. He has vetoed almost every piece of Cannabis legislation that came across his desk.

Doctors can now prescribe Medical Cannabis for any condition now. With recreational use legalized in Maine, hopefully, lawmakers will start giving doctors more flexibility.

The bill becomes law 90 days after the Legislature’s special session ends.

Full bill