FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 12/02/2019: Minnesotans living with Chronic Pain or Macular Degeneration may apply for medical cannabis starting in July 2020, with access to the state’s program available in August. In addition, the Commissioner approved water-soluble cannabinoid multi-particulates (e.g. powders and sprinkles) and orally dissolvable products (e.g. gums, mints, sublingual tablets) as delivery methods.

Sensible Minnesota petitions the Minnesota Department of Health to add additional qualifying conditions to the medical cannabis program annually. This year, led by former Patient Program lead Jared Poe, two of our petitions were approved (chronic pain and orally dissolvable products), and one (traumatic brain injury) was denied. Research suggests that as 20% of the U.S. population suffers from Chronic Pain.

“We are thrilled that the commissioner heard last month’s plea for reducing the barriers to access medical cannabis in our state. Our team hopes that this will result in increased access for Minnesota patients, lower prices for medical cannabis products, and an increased quality of life for our fellow Minnesotans.” said Gunnar Aas, President of Sensible Minnesota.

“Today, a huge barrier to accessing Minnesota’s program fell. This is great news, not just for Minnesotans suffering with chronic pain, but for all patients who are struggling to afford the program. We hope that these changes, combined with the ones we are pushing legislatively next year, will bring our program closer to the levels of access and affordability we see in other states.” said Maren Schroeder, Policy Director of Sensible Change Minnesota.

Patients (including veterans) and caregivers with questions regarding the registration process may email [email protected] to connect with an advocate.

About Sensible Minnesota

Sensible Minnesota is a 501(c)3 non-profit that aims to make our neighborhoods safer and more inclusive for those negatively impacted by cannabis prohibition and the war on drugs; collectively we work to educate the public and promote societal changes that emphasize compassion over isolation, restorative justice over incarceration, and public health over stigma.  You can learn more about the organization by visiting www.sensible.mn.

Press Contact

Joan Barron, (763) 639-6618, [email protected], Director, Patient Program Lead