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Washington • Rep. Jason Chaffetz introduced legislation Thursday that would bar prosecution of individuals using cannabidiol oil for medical purposes in states that allow such use.
Fifteen states, including Utah, have passed laws to allow use of cannabidiol oils for treatments for epilepsy, cancer and other diseases, though federal law still considers the oil an illegal drug.
"Patients who qualify to receive treatment should not have to fear prosecution by the federal government," Chaffetz said in a statement. "States have taken the lead on this issue and the federal government should follow."
Cannabidiol oil is derived from cannabis and is listed as a Schedule 1 drug by the federal government, meaning the purchase or possession of the substance is a crime. Chaffetz's bill defers to the states on the legality of medicinal cannabidiol oil.
Utah Gov. Gary Herbert backs the legislation, saying it would "alleviate the fear" that many Utah families face over conflicting state and federal laws.
"This legislation resolves that concern," Herbert said, "by respecting decisions made at the local level."