State Senate OKs plan to expand medical marijuana
SPRINGFIELD - A proposal that would allow minors with epilepsy to use medical marijuana is moving through the Illinois legislature.
The legislation passed the Senate on Tuesday with a 49-5 vote. It adds epilepsy to the medical conditions that can be treated with medical cannabis, including children with epilepsy.
Currently, only residents 18 years and older can use medical marijuana in the state's four-year pilot program.
Parents of children with epilepsy say consuming oil from the marijuana plant reduces seizures and doesn't make children feel high.
State Sen. Iris Martinez is sponsoring the measure. She says using medical marijuana will reduce seizures in children.
Opponents say legalizing marijuana for minors contradicts the state's drug prevention programs.
The bill now moves to the House for consideration.