(INDIANAPOLIS) - Marijuana advocacy groups met with Indiana officials Friday following the federal reclassification of state-licensed medical cannabis.
Advocates say the move could open the door for states like Indiana, which currently do not have a comprehensive medical cannabis law.
Veterans and organizers, including Jeff Staker and Lucy Luman, say the change addresses concerns lawmakers have previously raised about legality and regulation.
Both said they met with representatives from the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs and the Indiana Department of Health to discuss possible next steps, including the potential creation of a state cannabis compliance commission.
Supporters argue the issue is especially important for veterans and patients managing chronic pain.
State lawmakers are also reacting to the change. Representative Jim Lucas says the reclassification could help advance legalization efforts in the next legislative session.
State Senator Rodney Pol says the issue remains personal, citing the experiences of family members who used medical cannabis for pain relief.
However, others remain skeptical about whether significant changes will happen. Representative Mitch Gore says opposition within legislative leadership could continue to block reform efforts.
At the federal level, Congressman André Carson says decisions on legalization will ultimately depend on state lawmakers and their constituents.
Indiana State Police say marijuana remains illegal under current state law and enforcement will continue.