Pubdate: Mon, 21 Jul 2014
Source: Chicago Sun-Times (IL)
Copyright: 2014 Sun-Times Media, LLC
Contact: http://mapinc.org/url/5QwXAJWY
Website: http://www.suntimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/81
Author: Brian Slodysko
Page: 8

QUINN SIGNS 'LIFE-SAVING LAW'

Children and adults who suffer from epilepsy could soon find relief 
in medical marijuana under a bill signed Sunday by Gov. Pat Quinn.

During a ceremony at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, the Democratic 
governor signed the law, which adds seizures to the list of 
conditions that can be treated with medical-grade cannabis.

Quinn called it a "lifesaving law" and said medical marijuana could 
offer those suffering from seizures a "positive experience when it 
comes to daily living."

"I think it's very important that we move forward and extend the 
opportunity for this important life-saving law to go to all those who 
need it," Quinn added.

Under the law, adults who suffer epilepsy will be allowed to smoke 
medical marijuana. Children will not. Instead, they will be able to 
take "non-smokable forms of medical marijuana," according to Quinn's office.

Some lawmakers were initially skeptical about giving medical 
marijuana to children, but advocates said many parents have not had 
success treating their epileptic children with conventional medicine. 
That won over some Republican votes during last spring's legislative 
session, including House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs.

"I have a 14-year-old constituent . . . who lives with epilepsy," 
Durkin said. "His parents . . . want to provide their son with as 
much relief possible. Unfortunately traditional medications and 
methods have not worked."

Those hoping to use medical cannabis will still have to wait because 
it won't be available until at least early 2015.

Last week, a state committee that oversees rulemaking for Illinois' 
nascent medical marijuana efforts gave a final affirmative nod, 
allowing dispensers and distributors to begin their work.

Applications for those seeking to use, grow or sell medical marijuana 
will likely be available in August, state officials have said.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom