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CCC does not vote to uphold Baker's ban on vaping products for medical patients

BOSTON — Medical marijuana patients are a step closer to getting their hands on vaping products next week after the Cannabis Control Commission decided not to take action against Governor Charlie Baker's ban, specifically on medical products.

Earlier this week, a judge ruled the state overstepped its authority by banning the sale of medical marijuana vaping products.

>> Previous: Judge rules Gov. Baker, DPH overstepped authority in medical marijuana vape ban

At their meeting Thursday, the commission could have voted to uphold the ban, but instead approved a motion to begin regulating any marijuana accessories or devices used for vaporized marijuana products.

"The motion is we will begin a regulatory process to look at vaping products and determine whether we need to make any changes to our regulations with respect to vaping products," said Steven Hoffman, Chairman of the CCC.

State health officials say more than 200 suspected cases of vaping-associated lung injuries have been reported since September and three people have died of vaping-related lung illnesses, including a man who vaped both nicotine and the marijuana compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

>> 3rd person has died from vaping-related illness in Mass., health officials say

The ban on medical marijuana products is set to be lifted Tuesday but there are ongoing legal challenges. The Baker Administration appealed the judge's order and is asking for a temporary stay on the ruling.