Colorado Senators Advance Bill To Allow Medical Marijuana Use By Terminally Ill Patients In Health Facilities Such As Hospitals

OG article by Kyle Jaeger

February 13, 2026

Colorado lawmakers have moved forward with legislation to permit terminally ill patients to use medical marijuana in healthcare facilities. The Senate Health & Human Services Committee unanimously approved Senate Bill 26-007, sponsored by Sen. Kyle Mullica (D), with amendments making facility participation optional rather than mandatory.

The revised bill allows hospitals, nursing homes, and other health centers to establish guidelines for use, storage, and administration of medical cannabis by registered patients nearing end-of-life. It aims to ensure comfort and continuity of care without requiring facilities to store or dispense the medicine.

Supporters emphasize providing relief for severe symptoms during terminal illness. The measure protects facilities from state licensing penalties and allows policy suspension if federal enforcement risks arise. Similar "Ryan's Law" reforms are progressing in states like Washington, Virginia, and Mississippi.

Colorado's Department of Public Health and Environment anticipates minimal workload increases for outreach. The bill reflects growing recognition of medical cannabis benefits for palliative care while addressing provider concerns.