Thailand's parliament has unanimously approved an amendment that will allow for the use of medicinal marijuana.
Passing by a vote of 166-0 on Tuesday, the military-backed legislature approved an amendment to the narcotics law which will see marijuana available for research and medicinal purposes.
Lawmaker Somchai Sawangkan, the primary backer of the amendment, told reporters after the vote that it was a new year's present to the Thai people.
Somchai said that the amended legislation will allow for more opportunities to help patients suffering from chronic illnesses.
Deputy Prime Minister Prajin Juntong earlier told reporters that once legislation is in place, the government will determine how the crops will be grown, and the quantity allowed, depending on need and feasibility.
