Rauner Signs Bill Allowing Medical Marijuana In Schools

SPRINGFIELD, IL — Governor Bruce Rauner signed a bill this week allowing medical marijuana use in schools. The State Journal-Register reported Rauner signed the bill on Wednesday, known as House Bill 4870, which allows the parent, guardian or caregiver to administer medical marijuana to students as long as the adult is registered with the Department of Public Health beforehand, and the student is approved to use it.

Supporters of the bill argued that medical marijuana can have fewer side effects and be more effective than other medications used to treat a number of conditions.

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This move by Rauner comes as Patch recently reported some children are using doctor-prescribed cannabis oil or patches to provide relief from epilepsy and other health conditions, including 11-year-old Hanover Park student Ashley Surin.

Peoria Public Radio reported the bill came about when Surin, who suffers from severe epilepsy, wasn't allowed to use doctor-prescribed cannabis oil patches at school due to marijuana not being allowed on grounds. Ashley Surin's parents call the patches a "golden cure," and therefore suggested the legislation that would get rid of that ban for kids like their child.

The bill, which has been backed with bipartisan support in Illinois, allows students to use the smoke-free products while at school.

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