SALT LAKE CITY — In a new statement, the LDS Church appears to have softened its opposition to Senate Bill 73, which would bring medical marijuana to Utah.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sent FOX 13 the statement as the Utah State Senate is set to debate SB73 for the second day.

The LDS Church appeared to soften its position on SB73, but still did not support the legislation.

The statement reads:

“In our view, the issue for the Utah Legislature is how to enable the use of marijuana extracts to help people who are suffering, without increasing the likelihood of misuse at a time when drug abuse in the United States is at epidemic proportions, especially among youth. Recent changes to SB 73 are a substantial improvement. We continue to urge Legislators to take into account the acknowledged need for scientific research in this matter and to fully address regulatory controls on manufacture and distribution for the health and safety of all Utahns.”