Missouri governor approves cannabis extract law

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Missourians with epilepsy that cannot be effectively treated by conventional means will now be able to use a cannabis extract under legislation signed into law Monday by Gov. Jay Nixon.

The legislation was sponsored by St. Louis County Republican Eric Schmitt, a state senator whose 9-year-old son has the central nervous system disorder.

Patients wanting to use marijuana oil containing the chemical cannabidiol will be required to register with the state health department and also have a neurologist vouch that the patient's epilepsy hasn't responded to at least three other treatments. The extract known as CBD contains little of the related marijuana compounds favored by recreational users.

In a separate action, Nixon also signed legislation allowing terminally ill patients to use investigational drugs not yet approved by the federal government.