On the final day of the Indiana legislative session, a bill that would grant the sale and use of CBD oil across Indiana was approved. Backed by Gov. Eric Holcomb, Senate Bill 52 was accepted by both the House and the Senate. Three hours before the midnight deadline, the Senate reached a compromise, passing the bill at 36-11. The House passed the bill 97-0 approximately one hour later.

The acceptance of SB 52 means that all Hoosiers can now purchase and consume cannabis-derived CBD oil, so long as it contains 0.3 percent Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or less.

What is CBD oil and what are the health benefits?

Cannabidiol, which is usually referred to as CBD oil, is the natural substance extracted from cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike THC, the CBD compound will not make the user feel “high” or “stoned,” since it is non-psychoactive.

Comprising 40 percent of the cannabis plant extract, CBD has been scientifically proven to reduce the incidence of diabetes, relieve nausea and promote cardiovascular health.

Alternative health problems, conditions, and ailments that may be treated using CBD oil include anxiety, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and chemotherapy-related pain.

Children, elderly patients and even four-legged friends, including dogs and cats, can safely use CBD.

Just last year, Indiana passed a separate law, allowing patients with epilepsy to legally use CBD oil in Indiana as a treatment. In order to obtain the natural medication, patients were first required to register with the Indiana State Board of Health.

An overview of the latest laws on CBD oil in Indiana

During the most recent session, the Legislature pushed forward to legalize sales of the cannabis-derived product for everyone in Indiana. Building upon laws passed last year, SB 52 was written by Sen. Michael Young, R-Indianapolis. Young has expressed his thoughts on CBD oil, stating how there are no side effects that should make it an illicit substance.

Users of CBD oil in Indiana will now be relieved of potential penalties in the event of a random police check.

Starting July 1, CBD-based products will be permitted for sale. However, the items must be packaged and labeled with the necessary information, including the manufacturer name, expiration date, and ingredients.

“There’s a lot of red tape that I wouldn’t have necessarily thought was necessary in this bill, but I think that may be necessary to get it through the Senate Republican caucus,” said state Sen. Tim Lanane, D-Anderson.

The economy could be strengthened if more CBD-based products are produced in Indiana. Job creation may contribute to a reduction in black market activity.