permitting qualifying patients and designated caregivers to cultivate cannabis for therapeutic use.

HB 1231 allows qualifying patients and their designated caregivers to grow cannabis at home for medical purposes, provided the plants are kept in a locked, enclosed area that is not visible to the public. The bill sets specific limits on cultivation, permitting patients to possess up to three mature plants, three immature plants, and 12 seedlings, while allowing caregivers to assist with up to five patients or cultivate for one patient if they live far from treatment centers. To participate, individuals must register with the state, obtain an identification card, and report their cultivation location, which must be situated at their residence and approved by property owners. The legislation also clarifies that caregivers can receive up to $500 annually for expenses related to assisting patients and grants legal protections against arrest for those following the rules while transporting or testing cannabis.