BOISE, Idaho (AP) — An Idaho Senate panel has introduced legislation that would permit people to use oil extracted from cannabis plants, which would amend the state's strict marijuana ban in order to help people with epilepsy.

The Senate State Affairs Committee unanimously voted to introduce the bill Wednesday. The bill was approved immediately with no discussion. Currently, 11 other states have legalized cannabidiol oil. The extract is used to help reduce seizures in children with epilepsy. Idaho does not permit the use of medical marijuana.

Chairman Curt McKenzie is sponsoring the bill, meaning the legislation is likely to receive a full hearing where the public can provide testimony to lawmakers. However, it will face a steep uphill climb in Idaho's Republican-controlled Statehouse where lawmakers are wary of loosening Idaho's marijuana laws.

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