Wirch Bill Offering New Treatment for Seizures Passes Senate

Madison, WI - Today, the Wisconsin State Senate overwhelmingly approved legislation, authored by Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers), that gives hope to Wisconsinites suffering from debilitating seizures. Assembly Bill 726 (AB 726) allows cannabidiol (CBD) oil extract to be prescribed for the treatment of severe seizure disorders that have left Wisconsin families with no options other than brain surgery.

“As a parent, when your child hurts, you hurt. Sally Schaeffer, a mother to six year old Lydia, came to me after exhausting all possible treatments for her daughter who suffers from life threatening seizures. Sally was desperate for another option, as any parent would be. I was touched by her story and had to help,” Wirch said.

While CBD oil is a component of the marijuana plant, the CBD oil that would be prescribed for treatment has no recreational value. CBD oil is extremely low in THC, the compound in marijuana that delivers a “high” in users. AB 726 is narrow in scope and has safeguards to ensure the medicine will not be abused. Under AB 726, a physician would be allowed to prescribe CBD oil for the treatment of a seizure disorder if they have received authorization by the federal Food and Drug Administration. The doctor or pharmacist that dispenses CBD oil would require approval by the state Controlled Substances Board.

“I was pleased that partisan politics was put aside to pass this critical legislation. This bill gives hope to those with seizure disorders and their families where all other options have failed,” Wirch added.

AB 726 has been sent to the Governor to be signed into law.