In a significant development for medical marijuana advocates in Arkansas, state officials have granted an additional 30 days for the collection of signatures to support a ballot initiative aimed at expanding the state’s medical cannabis program. The campaign, led by Arkansans for Patient Access (APA), initially submitted nearly 110,000 signatures but fell short of the required 90,704 valid signatures needed to secure a spot on the November ballot.

The proposed initiative seeks to broaden the existing medical marijuana program by allowing healthcare professionals to recommend cannabis for any condition they deem appropriate and permitting patients to grow their own plants. It would also extend the validity of medical marijuana cards and include a provision for full legalization if federal law changes.

Despite the setback, campaign spokesperson Melissa Fults expressed confidence in meeting the signature requirement and achieving voter approval. For more details on this developing story, visit Marijuana Moment.