Hawaii Changing “Medical Marijuana” Terminology to “Medical Cannabis”

Two committees unanimously voted to require the state to refer to medical marijuana as medical cannabis. Lawmakers believe that the word cannabis is more fitting. The Department of Health has until December 31, 2019 to make all of the required changes to all written law and documents.

The changes are to be made to title 11 of the Hawaii Administrative Rules, according to Hawaii.gov. The changes are also required as the word marijuana often leads to stereotypes and racial prejudice issues. The word cannabis doesn’t carry the same stigma.

Medical marijuana patients throughout the state may receive “corrected” documents and information once completed. The process of switching all of the references of marijuana to cannabis will be a lengthy one. The items that will undergo the required revisions include letterhead regarding marijuana, state websites where marijuana is discussed, documents and any other necessary items.