ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Minnesota has approved two labs to test the medical marijuana produced by the two manufacturers the state approved earlier.

The labs announced Wednesday are Aspen Research in Maple Grove and Legend Technical Services in St. Paul.

Department of Health Assistant Commissioner Manny Munson-Regala says the labs will make sure the medicine is safe and reliable. They will test for levels of key compounds and also screen for contaminants such as solvents and pesticides.

Minnesota approved medical marijuana last year and has been ramping up its program. The state plans to start registering patients June 1 and distributing the drug July 1.

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