The Utah Department of Health began issuing hemp extract registration cards on Tuesday, allowing caregivers to possess and use hemp oil extract in treating patients with epilepsy.

The card allows for legal possession and use of hemp extract, a non-intoxicating cannabis oil taken from specially bred marijuana plants, for the treatment of epileptic seizures.

In order to obtain a hemp card and use the extract, patients must have intractable epilepsy, which means they have failed to respond to at least three forms of treatment under the care of a neurologist. The caregivers can then submit personal identification, proof of residency and an application to the Health Department for a hemp card. The application comes with a $400 fee to cover the cost of starting the program.

Despite widespread excitement for the arrival of hemp cards, many parents are waiting to apply until they know their out-of-state vendors will be able to send them the product.

HB105, which was signed into law in March, legalized the medicinal use of hemp extract in Utah and allowed for analysis of the treatment at medical research institutions.

Medical research of hemp extract treatment will be conducted at the University of Utah and Primary Children’s Hospital. Utah State University will also research the economic and agricultural feasibility of producing hemp in the state.

Read Full Story: deseretnews