A recreational marijuana legalization bill will soon land on Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s desk after the Illinois House and Senate voted to pass the comprehensive measure. The governor quickly issued a statement applauding the bill’s passage and pledging to sign it.
“The state of Illinois just made history, legalizing adult-use cannabis with the most equity-centric approach in the nation,” Pritzker said. “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.”
While there are giant pieces of criminal justice and social equity reforms attached to the measure — including giving a second chance to thousands of people convicted of marijuana possession — at its most basic level, the bill seeks to allow Illinois residents over 21 to buy cannabis from licensed dispensaries as soon as Jan. 1.
The measure would allow Illinoisans over 21 years old to possess 30 grams, or just over an ounce, of cannabis flower, and 5 grams, or less than a quarter-ounce, of cannabis concentrates such as hash oil. Additionally, Illinoisans would be able to carry up to a half-gram of edible pot-infused products.
If the bill is signed into law, Illinois will become the first state to approve cannabis sales through the Legislature, instead of a ballot measure.
