A recently introduced Pennsylvania Bill could reshape the way injured workers receive treatment and financial support for medical cannabis. House Bill 1766 (H.B. 1766), unveiled on Monday, proposes that Pennsylvania employers be required to reimburse injured workers up to $250 per month for cannabis-related expenses.
This proposed legislation aims to make medical marijuana a more accessible and affordable option for injured employees seeking alternative pain management treatments. The Pennsylvania Bill addresses a long-standing issue—medical cannabis use has been legal in the state, but coverage for its cost under workers’ compensation has remained uncertain.
Key Provisions of the Pennsylvania Bill
According to H.B. 1766, only workers registered with the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program would be eligible for reimbursement.
In addition to monthly reimbursements, the Pennsylvania Bill also mandates that employers or their insurance carriers cover the costs associated with obtaining and renewing a medical marijuana identification card. Currently, the state charges $50 for a cannabis patient ID card, and certification fees charged by Department of Health-approved physicians range from $100 to $350. These costs can be a barrier for many injured workers, especially those unable to work while recovering from job-related injuries.
By including these associated costs in the bill, lawmakers aim to relieve the financial burden placed on injured workers and promote safer alternatives to opioids and other pharmaceutical treatments.
Timing and Next Steps
Although the Pennsylvania Bill has been introduced, it won’t move forward immediately. The Pennsylvania House of Representatives is on recess until September 22, so any committee discussions or legislative action will be delayed until the fall session begins. However, the bill’s introduction marks a significant step forward in aligning state policy with the evolving needs of workers who use medical cannabis as part of their recovery.
Why This Pennsylvania Bill Matters
This Pennsylvania Bill could set a precedent for how other states approach cannabis reimbursement under workers' compensation. As the opioid crisis continues to affect communities across the country, more lawmakers are considering medical marijuana as a legitimate, lower-risk treatment option for chronic pain and injury recovery.
If passed, the Pennsylvania Bill would bring clarity to employers, insurers, and injured workers while acknowledging the medical value of cannabis. It’s a progressive step that reflects changing attitudes toward healthcare and labor rights.