REQUESTING THE GOVERNOR TO OBTAIN A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE EXEMPTION FROM THE DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION FOR REGISTERED MEDICAL CANNABIS PATIENTS AND REGISTRATION WAIVERS FOR STATE-LICENSED DISPENSARIES.

This Senate Concurrent Resolution asks the Governor to request a federal exemption from the Drug Enforcement Administration for Hawaii's registered medical cannabis patients and to seek registration waivers for state-licensed dispensaries. The bill aims to resolve the conflict between Hawaii's state medical cannabis program and federal law, which currently classifies cannabis as an illegal Schedule I substance. By pursuing these exemptions and waivers, the resolution seeks to protect patients from federal prosecution and allow dispensaries to operate with full banking and tax compliance. It also directs the Department of Health to report progress to the Legislature and sends copies of the resolution to federal officials and state agencies.