A freshman lawmaker has filed a bill that would let people suffering from serious illnesses treat them with marijuana.

Representative Katie Edwards, a Democrat from Plantation, says she never supported the use of medical pot before running for office and hearing people's stories. She says she's still against legalizing marijuana outright.

"This isn't an issue about whether we decriminalize marijuana for everything", said Edwards. "This is a recognition that it is happening, there are people who are sick, and these people who are very sick believe this is something that helps provide some relief from their suffering."

Senator Jeff Clemons is the Senate sponsor. The bills each face four committees - a difficult road to passage. A poll last month found 70% of Floridians would support an amendment to the state constitution legalizing medical marijuana.