New Medical Marijuana Law Changes In Effect

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Changes to Washington's medical marijuana program take effect on Friday.

The changes are part of an overhaul recently approved by lawmakers.

Post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries will now be considered qualifying conditions for patients hoping to receive a medical marijuana card.

Senate Bill 5052 was signed into law in April. Its goal was to align the state's medical and recreational marijuana systems to ensure the drug is delivered in a safe, regulated manner.

One controversial portion of the bill is the medical marijuana database. Although it's voluntary, those who don't register won't benefit from the same tax breaks and wouldn't be able to possess or grow the same amount of marijuana.

Another change limits the number of plants that can be grown in a household to 15.