A measure that would allow Minnesota residents to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana to treat medical conditions like cancer and AIDS has been approved on a 36-28 vote by the state Senate, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported April 29.

The measure next goes to the state House; if passed there, it would go to Gov. Tim Pawlenty, who opposes the legislation.

Under the bill, individuals would be allowed to grow up to 12 marijuana plants for personal medical use under a state-run scheme that would include licenses for medical users and regulation of nonprofit marijuana dispensaries.