SC Senate poised to approve medical marijuana bill [Video]

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCSC/WIS) – A bill that allows for a restrictive medical marijuana program is one step closer to being passed in the South Carolina Senate.

The “Compassionate Care Act,” only allows for marijuana use in oils, salves, patches, and vaporizers, so smoking marijuana would still be illegal.

State senators voted 26-17 Tuesday on giving the bill a second reading. The bill is expected to pass a final vote Wednesday at which point it would head to the House.

Sen. Tom Davis (R-Beaufort), the bill’s sponsor, said they’re not rolling the dice with the bill.

“We’re setting forth a very conservative, responsible way for patients to access cannabis upon the authorization of their physician,” he said.

A dozen medical conditions, including cancer, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy, would qualify for a prescription, which doctors would need to approve in person. Only certain licensed pharmacies would be able to dispense the drug, …