Pa. medical marijuana proposal won’t go to lawmakers until fall

A proposal to allow a very limited medical marijuana pilot program in Pennsylvania probably won’t go before state lawmakers until the fall.

Gov. Tom Corbett supports creation of a pilot program at certain hospitals, where doctors could prescribe an oil extract of the marijuana plant to patients suffering from debilitating seizures.

 

But the measure, which requires legislative approval, isn’t ready, Corbett said Monday.

“I don’t think you would see that done before the summer recess. Because you have to get this legislation drafted, you have to work it out, with a number of different factors.,” he said.

In the Republican-controlled Legislature, the Senate majority leader supports the medical marijuana plan, but House majority leaders are opposed.

Corbett reversed his position on legalizing a certain kind of medical marijuana – at the same time as advocates threatened to stage a sit-in outside his office unless they were able to meet with him.

Parents leading the charge say time is of the essence for their children in need of the medication.