Corbett Softens Stance on Medical Marijuana To Treat Childhood Disorders
By Tony Romeo
HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) -- Pennsylvania governor Tom Corbett is softening his stance on medical marijuana, saying he now favors a pilot program that would give access to a marijuana extract for children with severe seizure disorders.
Corbett spokeswoman Christine Cronkright says the governor's proposal, which would need legislative approval, would represent a tightly controlled, targeted approach: "a research-based pilot program with some of the leading children's hospitals in Pennsylvania. And this pilot would provide access to treatment for the affected families and further scientific study of CBD, which is specifically an oil derivative of cannabis."
Cronkright says the governor made the proposal during a meeting with affected families. She says details will have to be worked out with lawmakers and families.
Cronkright says Corbett's proposal is based on recommendations from the state physician general and the secretary of health, who met with affected families.
She says the governor wants to address the issue in a way that protects public health and safety.