DETROIT (AP) — A state official has rejected a recommendation to add severe autism to the list of conditions that qualify for medical marijuana in Michigan.

Mike Zimmer, the head of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, gave several reasons Thursday, including a lack of scientific evidence.

Supporters say oil extracted from marijuana and swallowed has been effective in controlling extreme physical behavior by kids with severe autism. But Zimmer questions whether that form is allowed under the medical marijuana law.

An advisory panel last month recommended adding autism to the medical marijuana program. Michigan would have been the first state.