Good evening. Here's what's moving in the world of medical cannabis today.
US House passes funding bill to expand medical cannabis access for veterans
The US House of Representatives has approved an FY27 funding bill that includes a provision to expand medical cannabis access for military veterans. The measure, which now advances to the Senate, would allow Department of Veterans Affairs doctors to recommend medical cannabis in states where it is legal.
If retained in the final appropriations package, the provision would represent a significant shift in federal policy, removing long-standing barriers that have prevented veterans from accessing medical cannabis through the VA healthcare system. Lawmakers in the Senate will now decide whether to keep the provision in the final bill.
NORML pays tribute to former Congressman Barney Frank
NORML has issued a statement remembering Congressman Barney Frank, who died recently, as one of the earliest supporters of marijuana legalisation in the US Congress. The organisation noted that Frank consistently argued that prosecuting cannabis users was a waste of law enforcement resources and an infringement on personal liberty.
Frank, who served in the House of Representatives for Massachusetts from 1981 to 2013, was a vocal advocate for state-level cannabis reform. NORML's tribute highlighted his view that cannabis policy was an issue better handled at the state level rather than by federal authorities.
UK heat health alerts issued for bank holiday weekend
Amber heat health alerts have been issued across parts of the UK as record-breaking May temperatures of up to 33C are forecast for the bank holiday weekend. The alerts, issued by the UK Health Security Agency, cover southern England and the Midlands, with the hottest day expected on Monday.
While not directly related to medical cannabis policy, the heatwave may affect patients who rely on temperature-sensitive cannabis-based medicines and those with chronic conditions exacerbated by extreme heat. The Met Office has advised the public to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours.
