WASHINGTON (AP) — District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser wants to double the amount of medical marijuana that qualified city residents can buy each month.

Bowser announced Wednesday that she will propose allowing patients to buy 4 ounces of pot a month, rather than 2 ounces. The regulatory change requires approval by the D.C. Council.

The Democratic mayor says the change would better meet the needs of patients.

The city has nearly 4,000 registered medical marijuana patients. City residents must be diagnosed with one of a small list of conditions — including cancer, glaucoma or severe muscle spasms — to be eligible.

Possession of up to 2 ounces of pot for recreational use is also legal in the city, and residents are permitted to grow up to three mature plants in their homes.