SPRINGFIELD — The Senate approved legislation Friday that would allow minors to obtain medical marijuana to treat symptoms of epilepsy.
The measure would allow minors under the age of 18 who suffer from epilepsy or chronic seizures to obtain a prescription card under the state’s fledgling medical cannabis regulations.
As originally crafted, the state’s marijuana laws didn’t allow minors to obtain a prescription for any reason, and patients of all ages were unable to receive cannabis to treat epilepsy.
The measure’s supporters point to scientific research showing that cannabidiol — a chemical found in marijuana — has shown considerable success in controlling seizures in many patients.
They dismissed concerns over supplying children with marijuana, pointing to strains of the plant that could be grown with low amounts of the high-inducing chemical, THC.
With the Senate voting 54-2 to approve the proposal, it now heads to Gov. Pat Quinn’s desk for a final decision.
The legislation is Senate Bill 2636.
Senate approves medical marijuana for minors
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