LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Marijuana will not become a legal treatment option for Nebraskans suffering from chronic illnesses this year.

Senators fell three votes short of the 33 needed to break a filibuster and force a vote on a medical marijuana bill Tuesday evening.

Opponents say marijuana has not been approved by the Federal Drug Administration and cannot be tested for safety like other drugs.

Attorney General Doug Peterson, Gov. Pete Ricketts and the Department of Health and Human Services also opposed the bill.

Advocates say medical marijuana is already legal in 23 other states and it is in Nebraska’s best interest to regulate it.

Sponsor Sen. Tommy Garrett of Bellevue says he will support a petition process to place the measure on the general election ballot.