A state initiative to treat children with epilepsy using medical marijuana is moving forward through a partnership with a private drugmaker.

A memorandum of understanding with the state, GW Pharmaceuticals and Georgia Regents, announced Tuesday, would allow for study of the use of cannabis oil for children with debilitating seizures.

The firm already has a process being vetted by regulators to extract liquefied cannabis oil that doesn’t contain THC, the chemical in marijuana that produces a high.

Last month, Gov. Nathan Deal announced administrative plans to move forward on the issue after legislation to legalize medical marijuana failed to pass during the most recent legislative session.

Details of the collaboration are expected in the next few months, and research should being later this year.

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