// a href = ./ //

Members of a national organization are protesting a proposed change to the Boy Scouts.

OnMyHonor.net organized a rally today in the Central West End. The protestors were arguing against changing the organization's long standing policy banning gay members. Delegates with the Boy Scouts plan to vote next week on lifting that ban.

The changes would not apply to adult members.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to legislation that would require scrap metal dealers to collect more information from the people who sell them metal.

A 2008 state law required scrap dealers to keep records for transactions involving aluminum and copper. The new legislation would require dealers to also record sales involving catalytic converters. Dealers also would have to keep track of the license plate numbers of sellers.

Scrap metal dealers would be prohibited from buying metal that is identified as belonging to telecommunications or cable providers.

The legislation gained final approval Friday, and it now goes to Gov. Jay Nixon.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Medical marijuana use in Illinois is now in Gov. Pat Quinn's hands after the state Senate approved legislation.

Lawmakers voted 35-21 Friday to send the measure to Quinn for final approval. Quinn hasn't signaled whether he will sign it into law.

The proposal allows physicians to prescribe marijuana to patients with specific terminal illnesses or debilitating medical conditions. Cancer, multiple sclerosis and HIV are among the 33 illnesses listed in the bill.

The measure gives a framework for a four-year pilot program that includes requiring patients and caregivers to undergo background checks.

Supporters say marijuana can relieve continual pain without triggering the detrimental side effects of other prescription drugs. Opponents say the program could encourage the recreational use of marijuana especially among teenagers.