House Approves Veterans Equal Access Amendment

Unsplash / Brandon Day / Public Domain

On May 19, 2016, the United States House of Representatives voted 233-189 to approve the Veterans Equal Access Amendment, which would allow VA doctors to recommend medical marijuana to patients in states where it is legal.

Introduced by longtime marijuana advocate Rep. Earl Blumenauer, the amendment was part of the Fiscal Year 2017 Military Construction, Veteran Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Later in the day, the Senate passed a similar measure.

“I commend my colleagues for showing compassion and supporting our wounded warriors,” Blumenauer told Leafly. “Today’s vote is a win for these men and women who have done so much for us and deserve equal treatment in being able to consult with, and seek a recommendation from, their personal VA physician about medical marijuana.”

Before the amendment can become law, the Senate and the House will have to reconcile both versions of the appropriations bill and approve, at which point it will then go to President Barack Obama to sign.

William Sumner is a freelance writer and marijuana journalist located in Panama City, FL. Passionate about writing, William is dedicated to journalistic integrity and providing quality insight on current events. You can follow him on Twitter @W_Sumner.

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