CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A Wyoming tribe is considering hemp and medical marijuana as possible opportunities to bolster its economy and treat illnesses.

The Casper Star-Tribune reported the Eastern Shoshone Tribe’s General Council approved a group’s study of the benefits of legalizing medical marijuana and producing hemp.

The group whose Shoshone name So-go-Beah Naht-Su’ translates to Mother Earth and Medicine in English says it has no plans to push for legalizing recreational marijuana.

The group is expected to present research and a proposal at the next general council meeting, possibly in January.

Advocates say the measures could help diversify the Wind River Reservation economy while offering an additional option to treat some medical conditions.

The group says some older tribal citizens have expressed hesitance, with support coming from many younger tribal members.

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