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SC Senate approves medical marijuana bill

South Carolina Sen. Tom Davis, R-Beaufort, prepares to begin a debate on legalizing medical marijuana in the state on Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022, in Columbia, S.C. Davis has been fighting for a floor debate on his proposal for seven years. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Collins)
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AP
South Carolina Sen. Tom Davis, R-Beaufort, prepares to begin a debate on legalizing medical marijuana in the state on Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Collins)

It took three weeks of lengthy and tedious debate, but the state Senate this week approved a medical marijuana bill and sent it on to the House.

The 28 to 15 vote was NOT along party lines in the Republican controlled body. It had support and opposition from Senators of both parties. It marked the end of a seven year quest to pass the bill by Sen Tom Davis - R, Beaufort.

The medical marijuana bill now faces an uncertain future as it moves to the more conservative House of Representatives.

Russ McKinney has 30 years of experience in radio news and public affairs. He is a former broadcast news reporter in Spartanburg, Columbia and Atlanta. He served as Press Secretary to former S.C. Governor Dick Riley for two terms, and for 20 years was the chief public affairs officer for the University of South Carolina.