BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The Idaho Senate has approved legalizing oil extracted from cannabis plants to treat children with severe forms epilepsy after lengthy and sometimes tearful debate from lawmakers urging the bill's passage.

Senators voted 22-12 on Tuesday to decriminalize the oil, a non-psychotropic extract of marijuana. Proponents of cannabidiol oil argue that it reduces the amount and length of seizures in children with intractable forms of epilepsy.

Originally, the bill didn't legalize the oil, but instead provided a legal defense for parents possessing the product. However, lawmakers amended the bill before voting. Republican Sen.

Jeff Siddoway from Terreton says the Idaho Legislature should do all that it can to help suffering children. The legislation now heads to the House.

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