Burton Woman Behind Push to Allow Use of Medical Cannabis in Michigan Schools

The Michigan House of Representatives is considering a bill that would allow students to use medical marijuana products in Michigan schools.

Jayden's Law Inspired by Burton Teen

Jayden's Law refers to Jayden Carter, whose mother began giving him cannabis oil when he was in fifth grade. Jayden suffers from Asperger syndrome, a form of Autism, and was prone to sometimes violent behavioral outbursts.

In 2018, the Burton woman told Townsquare Media that she had tried every pharmaceutical approved for children and only found relief when she began giving her son small doses of cannabis oil. She was instrumental in the fight to allow minors in Michigan to be treated with medical marijuana.

Jayden - now 16 - is legally able to use medical marijuana, but not on school grounds. Under current state law, his mother must check him out of school, and drive at least 1,000 feet away from campus in order for Jayden to consume the medication he needs.

Legislators Push to Allow Medical Cannabis on School Grounds

State Rep. Dylan Wegela is reintroducing legislation that would allow students like Jayden to use medical cannabis at school. He says that if Jayden's Law passes, medical cannabis would be dispensed just like other prescription medications.

"I was a teacher for seven and a half years," Wegela tells WJBK-TV.  "It’s really important that students feel that they are being treated equitably. that their medicine matters too. That they’re not having to miss class time."

House Bill 5063 carries the following restrictions in order to guarantee the safety of students:

• The student must have approval from two doctors.
• An annual medical marijuana license
• It must be in their possession and it can only be given by a school nurse or administrator.  
• The bill does not include smoking marijuana.

The bill is currently being considered by a House committee.

Currently 17 states, including Michigan, allow for medical marijuana to be used to treat minors. Only 10 states and Washington DC allow for its use in school.