by Chris Blank
AP
Posted on May 1, 2014 at 8:21 PM
Updated today at 11:21 PM
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri residents with epilepsy that is not relieved by other treatments could use a cannabis extract under legislation given final approval Thursday after a state senator's passionate speech about his son.
Sen. Eric Schmitt said families in Missouri are moving their entire lives to get treatment for their children and that they should be able to get it in their home state. The lawmaker's 9-year-old son, Stephen, has intractable epilepsy and watched Thursday's debate from the Senate chamber with family.
"The sense of urgency is real for families that are making those decisions," said Schmitt, a Republican from St. Louis County.
Legislation passed by the Missouri Legislature would allow use of a "hemp extract" containing little of the chemical that causes marijuana users to feel high and larger amounts of a chemical called cannabidiol, or CBD. Patients or their parents would need a registration card that would be issued by the state health department to Missouri residents. CBD oil only would be available after a neurologist has determined a patient's epilepsy isn't responding to at least three treatment options.
The Department of Health and Senior Services would regulate distribution of the oil. Growers would need to be a nonprofit entity and be licensed. A maximum of two licenses could be issued.
Senators approved the legislation 32-0, and the House voted 136-12 to send it to Gov. Jay Nixon, who said Thursday he hasn't reviewed the measure but isn't philosophically opposed. The bill would take effect immediately.
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Missouri lawmakers passes cannabis extract bill