Alabama Medical Cannabis Concerns Persist

Four years after medical cannabis was legalized in Alabama, a prominent parent advocate is urging lawmakers to take action as patients continue to face obstacles in accessing care.

Dustin Chandler, a supporter of Carly’s Law in 2014—which aimed to help seizure patients use limited amounts of CBD—expressed frustration over the inability to fully implement the state’s medical cannabis program. His daughter, Carly, experiences seizures, and after looking into THC’s potential benefits, Chandler believes it could help her condition.

“When discussing seizure control, pediatric neurologists have indicated that while CBD can be beneficial, sometimes a bit of THC is necessary,” he shared.

Chandler criticized the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) for issuing licenses without adequate testing of cannabis facilities. “It’s confusing. We’re seeing licenses given to companies that haven’t even shown they’re constructing a facility. This isn’t something simple,” he remarked.

Another concern for Chandler is the absence of a required registration process for patients. “It points to a lack of necessary structures. There are no registrations in place to verify that patients have qualified doctors. It seems like the law isn’t being upheld, even after four years,” he noted.

In a letter to all 35 state senators, he called for immediate intervention. “I’m writing to emphasize the urgency of implementing the medical cannabis program that was signed into law over 1,400 days ago. Patients, including my daughter, are still barred from accessing vital medications that could greatly enhance their lives,” he stated.

Chandler added that the ongoing delays are effectively denying essential healthcare to those who need it most, urging policymakers to clarify the situation and bring hope back to families affected by these issues.

In response, the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission defended its actions, noting that a court injunction had halted the licensing process for 16 months. They emphasized that the strong interest in this program suggests a significant demand for cannabis care in Alabama.

The Commission reported that there are currently at least three licensed cultivators growing cannabis in the state and affirmed their commitment to expedite the opening of clinics.

Despite these reassurances, Chandler and other advocates are losing patience. For them, time isn’t just about bureaucratic delays—it represents lost chances for families seeking essential medical care.