Illinois OKs 2,800 Marijuana Patients, Including 10 Children

Most of the children have seizure disorders

Illinois officials say 10 children are among the 2,800 patients approved to use medical marijuana in the state's new program. Most of the children have seizure disorders.

The Illinois Department of Public Health said Wednesday it approved about 200 new patient applications for medical marijuana during July, bringing the total to 2,800.

Growers say they'll have marijuana for sale later this year.

Parents of children with severe epilepsy pushed for the expansion of medical marijuana to minors in Illinois. Children are able use the drug for any of the nearly 40 health conditions already authorized for adults, with state approval and a written certification from two doctors. Adult patients need one doctor's consent.

The department said Wednesday about 3,500 patients submitted complete applications. That's about 300 more than last month.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us