California Proposition 215, also known as the Compassionate Use Act, was passed by voters in November 1996. It allowed patients with certain medical conditions to use medical marijuana legally if recommended by a licensed physician. This marked the first time a state in the U.S. legalized medical cannabis, setting a precedent for other states to follow. The proposition aimed to provide relief for patients suffering from chronic illnesses, such as cancer and HIV/AIDS. It established a framework for the cultivation and distribution of medical cannabis, emphasizing the importance of patient care and access to alternative treatments.