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Iowa Bill That Would Double the Number of Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Heads to the Governor’s Desk

  • Isabella Romo
  • 17 hours ago
  • 4 min read

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Medical marijuana patients in Iowa could soon have easier access to their medication thanks to a new bill that is now heading to Governor Kim Reynolds’ desk. Lawmakers recently passed HF 990, a bill that would double the number of medical marijuana dispensaries allowed in the state.


If signed into law, the bill would increase Iowa’s dispensary cap from five locations to ten.


What Is HF 990?

House File 990 is a new Iowa bill focused on expanding access to medical marijuana for patients across the state. Supporters of the bill say Iowa’s current program is too limited, especially for patients living in rural areas who may need to travel long distances just to reach a dispensary.


The bill passed with strong bipartisan support in both the Iowa House and Senate and has been sent to the governor for final approval. While there is no exact timeline for a final decision, governors typically review legislation within the following days or weeks after it reaches their desk.


Why Does Iowa Want More Dispensaries?

Right now, Iowa has five licensed medical marijuana dispensaries serving patients across the state. Supporters of HF 990 believe adding more dispensary locations could help improve convenience and expand access for patients, especially those living farther away from current dispensaries.


The bill proposes allowing five additional dispensaries to open, with the hope of improving access for patients and reducing long travel times. More dispensary locations could also help reduce overcrowding and improve product availability throughout the state.


Other Changes Included In the Bill

In addition to increasing dispensary licenses, HF 990 would also allow out-of-state residents to participate in Iowa’s medical marijuana program if they receive certification from an Iowa medical marijuana provider.


Even if HF 990 becomes law, Iowa’s medical marijuana program would continue operating under its current product guidelines. Patients can currently access products such as oils, capsules, tinctures, vapes, and other approved forms of medical marijuana. Iowa patients are generally limited to purchasing up to 4.5 grams of THC over a 90-day period, although healthcare providers can recommend higher THC allowances for patients who may need them.


How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Iowa

The first step to getting a medical marijuana card is to confirm your eligibility by reviewing Iowa’s approved qualifying condition list. Then, you can schedule a medical marijuana appointment and bring any relevant medical documentation available for the doctor to review. If you’re unsure if you qualify, give us a call, and we can assist you! If you don’t have medical records for your condition, our doctors at Iowa Marijuana Card are able to diagnose you during your evaluation!


We make it easy to schedule an evaluation with a certified medical marijuana doctor. At Iowa Marijuana Card, appointments are completed through telemedicine, so you can speak with our certified medical marijuana doctor from home on a schedule that fits your needs. During the appointment, the doctor will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms and treatment goals, and determine whether medical marijuana may be an appropriate option for you. If approved, you will receive the physician certification needed to apply to the state.


After receiving your doctor certification, patients must complete the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services registration process. Our team is available to help guide you through each step of the application so you know what documents are needed and how to successfully submit your information. 


After submitting your application, the state will review your information within 3 to 5 business days, and, if approved, your Iowa medical marijuana card will be sent to you by email. Patients can digitally download their card and use it to legally visit licensed Iowa dispensaries and purchase medical marijuana products. Patients must also bring a government-issued ID in order to visit dispensaries. 


What Happens Next?

Governor Kim Reynolds will now decide whether to sign HF 990 into law. She can sign the bill, veto it, or allow it to become law without her signature. While an exact decision date has not been announced, bills sent to the governor are typically reviewed within the following days or weeks.


If approved, Iowa patients could see new dispensary locations open throughout the state, making medical marijuana more accessible for thousands of registered patients.


Get Your Marijuana Card!

We are now seeing medical marijuana patients in Iowa!


Don’t wait to get the relief you deserve! Schedule an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate marijuana doctors via telemedicine! 



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, simply give us a call at 866-443-1122, send us an email at info@iowamarijuanacard.com, or schedule a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!


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