LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Lawmakers say friends and family members who suffered from chronic illnesses have convinced them that Nebraska should allow medical marijuana.

Senators on Friday rallied behind the Cannabis Compassion and Care Act, introduced by Sen. Tommy Garrett of Omaha.

Garrett calls it inexcusable that Nebraskans should be forced to illegally obtain a substance which studies have shown can alleviate debilitating symptoms.

Forms of medical marijuana have been legalized in 23 states and the District of Columbia.

Sen. Sue Crawford of Bellevue also introduced a bill this year allowing for a study examining the effects of using cannabidiol to treat seizures.