House Votes to Let VA Doctors Recommend Medical Marijuana to Veterans: What This Means for Iowa

In a historic move, the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed an amendment that would allow doctors with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to recommend medical marijuana to veterans in states where it is medically legal, including Iowa. This marks a significant step forward in expanding access to medical marijuana for veterans who have long sought alternative treatments for conditions like PTSD, chronic pain, and more.

A Long-Awaited Victory for Veterans

For years, many veterans have voiced their frustration at being denied access to medical marijuana through their VA doctors, even in states like Iowa where it is legal for qualifying conditions. Because VA physicians are federal employees, they’ve been prohibited from recommending marijuana due to its status under federal law.

But now, thanks to a bipartisan vote in the House in June, that restriction may finally be lifted. The amendment, part of a larger appropriations bill, would allow VA doctors to discuss and recommend medical marijuana as a treatment option, removing a major barrier for veterans seeking care.

How This Impacts Veterans in Iowa

Here in Iowa, medical marijuana has been legal for patients with qualifying conditions through the state’s Medical Cannabidiol Program. Many veterans have already turned to Iowa’s program to find relief from their conditions.

If this amendment becomes law, veterans in Iowa will finally be able to discuss medical marijuana with their VA doctors, making the process more accessible and comfortable for many who rely on the VA for most of their medical needs.

What’s Next?

Although the House has passed the amendment, the change is not yet final; it still needs to be approved by the Senate and signed into law. Advocates remain hopeful, as public support for medical marijuana access among veterans continues to grow.

At Iowa Marijuana Card, we’re dedicated to helping patients, including veterans, understand Iowa’s medical marijuana program. We’ll continue to keep you updated on this important legislation and what it means for veterans.

If you’re a veteran in Iowa and interested in learning more about how to qualify for the program, keep an eye on our website and blog for the latest updates, and we’ll be here to assist you as soon as we begin seeing patients.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana

We are currently not seeing medical marijuana patients in Iowa, but we will be soon!

Don’t delay! Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate marijuana doctors and the chance to win a FREE evaluation! We’ll set up an appointment for you just as soon as we start seeing patients. 

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

Helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, reserve a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!