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Walker Signs Legalization Of Marijuana Byproduct Into Law

Cannibidiol, or CBD, Can Be Used To Treat Seizures In Children

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Above, Gov. Scott Walker speaks to reporters on Wednesday. Photo: Shawn Johnson/WPR.

Gov. Scott Walker has signed a law that would legalize an extract of the marijuana plant to treat seizure disorders.

The new law would lift criminal penalties for the drug known as CBD as long as it’s prescribed under the supervision of a doctor and a pharmacist. CBD contains extremely low levels of the substance in marijuana that gives users a high, a point stressed by Walker.

“You know, the bottom line is it’s very narrowly crafted,” said Walker. “It is not medical marijuana; it’s certainly not legalizing marijuana. It is a byproduct.”

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He added: “Today, when I signed it, my entire office was full of families with children who were obviously very thrilled with the signing of the legislation into law, because their families were hopeful their sons or daughters would be able to get treatment for seizures and other related symptoms out there.”

Nearly every state lawmaker voted for the bill when it cleared the Legislature.

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