Illinois to Legalize and Decriminalize Marijuana

Illinois to Legalize and Decriminalize Marijuana

Things are looking up in Illinois. You’ll remember that Illinois passed a medical marijuana bill last year and that the program stalled due to delays. However Illinois’ new Governor, Bruce Rauner, has announced the winners of medical marijuana cultivation and distribution licenses which delivers a bit of hope that the marijuana scene in Illinois is progressing. Another indication? Legislation to legalize the possession and cultivation of recreational marijuana has been filed in the Illinois Senate and a measure to decriminalize the possession of weed has been filed in the state’s House. According to official records:

House Bill 218 amends the Cannabis Control Act. It provides that the knowing possession of not more than 30 grams of any substance containing cannabis is a petty offense charged by a Uniform Cannabis Ticket with a fine of $100 (rather than a Class C misdemeanor for 2.5 grams or less, a Class B misdemeanor for more than 2.5 grams to 10 grams, and a Class A misdemeanor for more than 10 grams to 30 grams). Provides that knowing possession of more than 30 grams but not more than 500 grams of any substance containing cannabis is a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense (rather than a Class 4 felony) and a Class 4 felony for a subsequent offense (rather than a Class 3 felony). Amends the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963. Establishes procedures concerning the Uniform Cannabis Ticket. This bill has been assigned to the House Restorative Justice Committee.