Cannabis plants grow in the University of Mississippi's indoor growing facility as part of a contract administered through the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Ole Miss scientists will study new therapeutic uses for cannabis through the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Research Program. Photo by Kevin Bain/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services
Landmark legislation provides framework for research efforts
by Natalie Ehrhardt
In a significant move toward advancing medical research and patient care in Mississippi, Gov. Tate Reeves has signed a bill that establishes the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Research Program at the University of Mississippi.
The legislation, spearheaded by Sen. Kevin Blackwell and co-authored by state Sens. Reginald Jackson, Rod Hickman, Sarita Simmons and Nicole Boyd, represents a milestone in efforts to understand the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis and its impact on patient outcomes.
“We are grateful for the leadership of Gov. Reeves and the tireless efforts of Sen. Blackwell, Sen. Boyd and their colleagues in championing this landmark legislation,” said Robert Welch, director of the university’s National Center for Cannabis Research and Education.
“The establishment of the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Research Program represents a tremendous opportunity to advance scientific knowledge, improve patient care and ultimately enhance the well-being of individuals across our state and the nation.”
The new program at the School of Pharmacy is set to operate under the umbrella of the NCCRE, which is dedicated to advancing scientific understanding and education in the field of cannabis research.
Working with the Mississippi Department of Health‘s Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program and patient advocacy groups, program administrators aim to make new information more understandable for health care providers, patients, caregivers, law enforcement and policymakers.
The bill also establishes an advisory board that will oversee research efforts, ensure compliance with regulatory standards and guide the program’s strategic direction.
The program will focus on examining the safety, efficacy and potential therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis for patients suffering from a range of medical conditions. The bill includes funding that will give Ole Miss pharmacy school researchers the resources needed to conduct scientific investigations and explore new avenues for medical cannabis research and educational programs.
“The National Center for Cannabis Research and Education will help to ensure that Mississippi remains at the forefront of natural products research,” said Boyd, a sponsor of the bill. “I am proud of the University of Mississippi for continuing to be a national leader in research excellence.”
The university’s National Center for Natural Products Research and Center for Pharmaceutical Marketing and Management will collaborate with NCCRE in medical cannabis research efforts being planned.
