The Georgia Senate proposal would reduce the level of THC permissible in cannabis oil from 5 percent to 3 percent. Pictured: homemade cannabidiol oil (Hyoung Chang, Denver Post file)

Georgia Senate approves cutting medical marijuana THC level, sets up conflict with House for access

Published: • Updated:

By The Associated Press

ATLANTA — Georgia Senators are working to slash the potency of medical cannabis oil while slightly expanding access.

The bill passed the full Senate Thursday with a vote of 41-12 after lengthy debate and the rejection of three amendments proposed during discussion.

Related: Georgia Senate’s cannabis working group proposes expansion of qualifying medical conditions (included PTSD, HIV, chronic pain)

Medical marijuana across the United States

Wisconsin: Wisconsin Senate passes CBD possession bill but refuses to legalize cannabis production

North Dakota: North Dakota legislature weighs massive list of rules for medical marijuana

South Carolina: ‘I’m tired of seeing people suffering’: South Carolina medical marijuana bill gains ground

The proposal will reduce the level of THC permissible in cannabis oil from 5 percent to 3 percent and will add autism to the list of qualifying conditions. Senators cited no scientific studies to support the reduction.

It will next head to the House where representatives are considering a separate bill that will more broadly expand access. That proposal is set for a committee hearing next week.

Lawmakers expect both chambers to pass their respective bills and then come to a compromise before the end of the session.