People who need marijuana for medical conditions are closer to being able to procure the drug legally following a unanimous vote in a Pennsylvania Senate committee.
The Law and Justice Committee voted Friday for a bill that would allow marijuana to be grown, processed and dispensed, with oversight by a state Board of Medical Cannabis Licensing.
State residents would need a $100 access card from the Health Department after proving they have a practitioner-patient relationship and written confirmation of a qualifying medical condition.
A prime sponsor, Sen. Daylin Leach, says he thinks there are about 45 votes in the Senate, enough to override a promised veto from Gov. Tom Corbett.
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Leach says he's optimistic the bill will get a floor vote before lawmakers leave Harrisburg for the summer.