BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota’s Health Department is accepting proposals from laboratory companies that want to test medical marijuana in the state.

It’s the next step in efforts to establish a system for the drug approved by voters in November 2016.

Last summer, seven laboratory companies with experience in other states expressed interest in being a part of North Dakota’s program. Now they can formally apply, through April 19.

North Dakota law allows the use of medical marijuana for 17 medical conditions, along with terminal illnesses. The drug is expected to be available to patients late this year.

The Health Department is finishing administrative rules covering such things as testing, security requirements and transportation regulations. The agency two weeks ago selected a Florida-based company to implement a monitoring system for North Dakota’s program.