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Illinois Marijuana Legislation Goes To Governor

Dan Brady
Jeff Smudde
/
WGLT
State Reps. Dan Brady, center, Keith Sommer, right, and Dan Caulkins, not shown—the three Republicans who represent McLean County in the House—all voted against the bill.";s:

The Illinois House has sent Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker another victory by voting to legalize recreational marijuana use.

The 66-47 vote Friday would allow those 21 and older to buy marijuana at licensed dispensaries beginning next year. Residents could possess up to one ounce (30 grams) and non-residents could have 15 grams.

State Reps. Dan Brady, Keith Sommer, and Dan Caulkins—the three Republicans who represent McLean County in the House—all voted against the bill.

Pritzker called for legalization in his campaign for governor. He has pledged to sign the law.

“The state of Illinois just made history, legalizing adult-use cannabis with the most equity-centric approach in the nation. This will have a transformational impact on our state, creating opportunity in the communities that need it most and giving so many a second chance," Pritzker said in a statement.

Rep. Kelly Cassidy's measure also includes opportunities for past convictions for possession of 30 grams or less to be cleared. The Chicago Democrat said "it is time to hi the 'reset' button on the War on Drugs."

Private property owners could restrict use. Landlords could ban marijuana on their property. And employers would still be allowed to maintain "zero tolerance" policies toward marijuana use and the workplace.

The bill is HB 1438.

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Ryan Denham is the digital content director for WGLT.
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