Prop 215 (California's Compassionate Use Act)

Proposition 215, also known as the Compassionate Use Act, was passed in California in 1996. It allows patients with serious illnesses, like cancer or AIDS, to use marijuana for medical reasons with a doctor's recommendation. The law was designed to provide relief from painful symptoms, enabling patients to cultivate and possess marijuana legally. This act marked the first legalization of medical marijuana in the United States, paving the way for similar laws in other states. It aimed to ensure patients had access to a therapeutic option without fear of legal repercussions.