VA will not end payments over marijuana
December 12, 2018
Michigan voters recently approved legalizing recreational marijuana in Michigan, which already has legal medical marijuana. Yet, the federal government does not allow federal medical services providers to prescribe medical marijuana beyond using CBD, which has no THC or intoxicating effects.
In the federal government’s eyes, marijuana is a Schedule 1 drug, which means it is a drug prone to abuse but has little medicinal value. The government’s viewpoint is espoused by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Yet, modern medicine has proven that medical marijuana and its related substances are effective at treating pain, anxiety, insomnia and many other afflictions commonly associated with military combat service. Rather than relying on highly addictive pain medications or less effective alternative treatments.
Veteran participation in state marijuana programs, however, does not affect their eligibility for VA benefits and services.