South Carolina Senator will get medical marijuana debate after 7 years of attempts

A South Carolina senator who has battled for medical marijuana to be allowed into South Carolina for seven years looks like he will get a debate on the Senate floor.

Senators put Sen. Tom Davis’ medical marijuana bill in a special debate slot where they will have to take it up before almost all other bills. The Beaufort Republican expects that could be either Tuesday or Wednesday.

Davis’ proposal ranks as one of the most conservative in the country. People using medical marijuana are not permitted to smoke it. Doctors would have to meet patients in person before prescribing the oil, checking for any history of substance abuse and creating a written treatment plan.

The proposal specifies the illnesses that can be treated, which include cancer, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma. sickle cell anemia and autism.

The bill is still opposed by several enforcement groups as well as State Law Enforcement Division Chief Mark Keel and Attorney General Alan Wilson. Several Christian groups also are against it.

Davis believes he has enough votes in the Senate to send the bill to the House. More than 75% of U.S. states have passed laws allowing medical marijuana.