The Nebraska legislature's Health and Human Services Committee on Tuesday advanced a bill that protects doctors from civil, criminal, or disciplinary action.
The bill would provide doctors who recommended medical marijuana to their patients protection from prosecution. Included is a clause that says doctors are only exempt from prosecution if they act with integrity and do not cause harm to patients.
During Tuesday’s session, opponents said the bill is too broad and worry physicians could be immune from legal action if they recommend medical marijuana.
Supporters say the bill is a necessary step to create regulations for medical marijuana and note many patients and parents insist on additional safeguards.
In November 2024, voters approved legalizing medical marijuana in the state. However, the law still has not been enacted.
The bill advanced on a 5 to 2 vote.