Subcommittee backs bill to cut veteran medical marijuana card fee to $15

Representative Valdez told the Health Care Budget Subcommittee that House Bill 887 is "a simple bill that with a big impact," explaining it reduces fees for veteran medical marijuana use registry identification cards to $15 for issuance, replacement, or renewal. Valdez said the $15 fee covers administrative costs and continues support for research at Florida A&M University's division of research.

Valdez noted that a standard Florida medical marijuana card currently costs $75 and that, when combined with required doctor evaluations, annual costs for patients can reach roughly $150 to $175. He framed the bill as reducing a financial barrier veterans face when accessing medical cannabis for issues such as chronic pain, PTSD symptoms, sleep, and opioid dependence reduction.

Public testimony included support from Barney Bishop (Florida Smart Justice Alliance) and Jody James (Florida Cannabis Action Network). Representative Rosenwald offered supportive remarks during debate emphasizing the savings for veterans.

Representative Valdez waived closing and the committee voted to report HB 887 favorably.