A broadly worded bill that would ease some marijuana laws is working its way through the Kansas Legislature. If a bill passed by the Kansas House becomes law, the use of hemp oil for medicinal purposes would be legal. The measure would allow doctors to prescribe the oil for the treatment of seizures. Democrat Jim Ward of Wichita says the bill’s approval shows the legislature is making progress toward a more reasonable marijuana policy. But some Republicans, including Steve Brunk of Wichita, voted against the measure. Brunk says he's skeptical about claims for its medical use.
The bill also reduces penalties for first and second time possession of small amounts of marijuana. Supporters say that will help eliminate overcrowding in the state's prisons. The measure now heads to the Kansas Senate.
