Quinn OKs cannabis use for kids with epilepsy

Associated Press

Gov. Pat Quinn has signed legislation that will allow minors with epilepsy to use medical marijuana.

The governor signed the measure Sunday in Chicago. It was sponsored by Democratic state Sen. Iris Martinez of Chicago and Rep. Lou Lang of Skokie.

The law adds seizures to the list of treatable conditions in Illinois' medical cannabis program. It allows children with seizures from epilepsy to consume oil from the marijuana plant with a parent's consent.

Currently, only Illinois residents 18 years and older may use medical marijuana in the state's four-year pilot program.

Parents of children with epilepsy say consuming the oil reduces seizures and doesn't make children feel high. Opponents disagree with further legalizing the drug.

The legislation takes effect in January.