Federal health officials, led by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and CMS Director Mehmet Oz, are seeking to dismiss a lawsuit from anti-marijuana groups challenging a new initiative that covers up to $500 of hemp-derived products for Medicare patients. The government argues the plaintiffs lack legal standing and that the program involves legal hemp, which is distinct from controlled marijuana.

RFK Jr. and Dr. Oz are pushing to toss a lawsuit that’s trying to block Medicare coverage for hemp products

Apr 13, 2026

Source:

Tom Angell

Marijuana Moment

The federal government is standing its ground against those trying to pull the plug on a groundbreaking new Medicare program. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and CMS Director Mehmet Oz are officially pushing back on a lawsuit filed by groups that want to stop the government from helping seniors access hemp-based wellness products. This initiative is a huge win for common sense, offering eligible patients up to $500 a year to cover things like CBD and low-dose THC products to help manage their health.

The legal drama reached a new level this week when government lawyers argued that the folks suing—mostly a group called Smart Approaches to Marijuana—don’t actually have a legal right to be in court. The government’s point is simple: if you aren't being forced to use these products or pay for them, how are you being hurt? One individual plaintiff even admitted he has no intention of ever using hemp, leading the feds to point out that simply being "offended" by a policy isn't the same as being harmed by it.

This news matters because it shows a serious commitment to making cannabis-derived relief accessible to the people who need it most. By distinguishing between federally legal hemp and controlled marijuana, the administration is opening doors that have been locked for decades. For the everyday user, this is a signal that the tide is turning toward a more inclusive and practical approach to wellness.

If you have family members on Medicare who have been curious about using CBD for sleep or joint relief but were worried about the cost or the legality, keep a close eye on this. While the program is currently limited to specific provider groups, its survival in court could pave the way for much broader access. It’s always a good idea to chat with a healthcare provider first, but seeing the government fight for your right to choose natural alternatives is definitely a reason to be optimistic about the future of our community.