The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) asserted its support of increased access to cannabis for the purpose of medical research. In addition, the foundation is promoting three specific cannabis reform bills that would eliminate barriers to research.

The Medical Cannabis Research Act of 2019, or H.R. 601, would increase pathways to cannabis research, most notably for Parkinson’s disease. The VA Medical Cannabis Research Act of 2019, or H.R. 712 and S. 179 in the Senate, would increase access to medical cannabis for veterans. The Expanding Cannabis Research and Information Act, or H.R. 4322 and S. 2400 in the Senate, would reclassify cannabis at the federal level. MJFF specifically joined the Parkinson’s Foundation to send letters of support for The Expanding Cannabis Research and Information Act.

“Removing barriers for medical cannabis is one way in which Congress can help scientific researchers determine what the benefits of medical cannabis might be for Parkinson’s disease,” said Thompson, senior vice president of public policy for MJFF. “Our role on the public policy team is to work with Congress and the administration to ensure there is access and funding for research and care initiatives that can benefit people living with Parkinson’s and, right now, that includes access to medical cannabis for research.”

Impressively, MJFF also sent a letter to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration in 2018 to urge the government to reschedule cannabis. Last June, MJFF also sent a letter to the FDA again urging global cannabis reform through the World Health Organization. A third letter was sent to the FDA urging improved quality of labeling and safety.

Fox himself rarely talks about medical cannabis in the public eye, but has signaled support for the reclassification of the plant. On Oct. 17, MJFF’s Third Thursday live webinar informed viewers about medical cannabis and other alternative therapies. The webinar can be watched on demand after the live event.