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Hawaii Revises Rules for Medical Cannabis Dispensary Licensing Program

The Department of Health’s revised interim administrative rules took effect Feb. 24.

Cannabis Buds Adobe Stock Credit Hanohiki Resized
hanohiki | Adobe Stock

Medical cannabis dispensaries in Hawaii have a new set of rules to adhere to.

The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) revised its interim administrative rules for the state’s medical cannabis licensing program, with the new rules taking effect Feb. 24.

The original interim rules centered on implementing Hawaii’s medical cannabis program and getting dispensaries up and running to serve patients, according to a press release announcing the revised rules.

The new rules focus on six specific areas, according to the release, including:

  • Legislative changes to HRS Chapter 329D;
  • Manufacturing requirements for edible cannabis products;
  • Additional product safety measures for all cannabis products;
  • Clarification on collection of samples for testing;
  • Laboratory testing; and
  • Hemp production and processing as related to the medical cannabis dispensary system.

The revised interim rules can be found on the DOH website, which also offers and executive summary and a frequently asked questions page.

Hawaii launched its medical cannabis program in 2000, and as of Jan. 31, 2022, there are 33,951 patients and 2,748 caregivers registered in the state, according to the press release. There are currently 18 licensed dispensaries open to serve the market.

RELATED: A Look at Hawaii’s Constantly Evolving Medical Cannabis Program

Registered patients and caregivers can purchase up to 4 ounces of medical cannabis every 15 days, and a maximum of 8 ounces over a 30-day period.

The revised interim rules governing the Hawaii’s medical cannabis program will remain in effect until July 1, 2025, or until permanent rules are adopted.

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