The Illinois Senate passed legislation this week that would allow medical marijuana to be prescribed as an alternative to opioids. Senate Bill 336, which passed by a 44-6 vote, would allow patients to take a certificate from a physician to a medical marijuana dispensary in order to transition off an opioid prescription or treat pain without ever using them. “We know that medical cannabis is a safe alternative treatment for the same conditions for which opioids are prescribed,” said Senator Don Harmon, the bill’s sponsor, in a press release. “This legislation aims to stop dependence before it begins by providing an immediate alternative.” The legislation is now in the rules committee of the Illinois House. (Southern Illinoisan)
