Iowans with certain chronic conditions will soon have better access to treatment from a form of medical marijuana.

Gov. Terry Branstad signed HF 524 into law Friday but noted concerns with the new law in doing so.

Iowa began allowing people with certain chronic conditions to use cannabis oil but that law did not allow for the production or sale of the oil. The new law allows the state to authorize up to two facilities to grow and produce cannabis oil to be sold in five state-approved dispensaries. The law also allows Iowa doctors to prescribe cannabis oil for a list of 15 chronic conditions.

However, in signing the bill, Branstad urged lawmakers to address potential issues with the new law during the next legislative session. Among those concerns:

• Allowing people convicted of misdemeanor drug crimes to work at cannabis oil dispensaries or production facilities.
• Improved language for the Iowa Department of Public Health to perform background checks before issuing cards for cannabis oil users. Those with felony offenses may not be allowed a card.
• Improved background checks for owners of approved dispensaries and production facilities.