Pennsylvania Senate OKs medical marijuana bill

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- After an emotionally charged debate, Pennsylvania state senators passed legislation to legalize several forms of medical marijuana.

But the bill approved Wednesday, 43-7, faces opposition from House Republican leaders and Gov. Tom Corbett.

The chamber's debate had been propelled by parents who believe a marijuana oil extract can help their seizure-wracked children.

Under the proposal, state residents would need an access card from the Health Department after proving they have a practitioner-patient relationship and written confirmation of a qualifying medical condition.

A handful of drug delivery methods that do not involve smoking it would be permitted under the bill, including extracted oil, edible products, ointments and tinctures.

More than 30 other states have legalized some form of medical marijuana, according to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.