Medical Marijuana Law Approved by Illinois House

 Posted on April 27, 2013 in Criminal Defense

On Wednesday, April 17^th the Illinois House of Representatives held a vote about House Bill 0001. It is a controversial attempt to create a regulatory system for medical marijuana. The bill narrowly cleared in a 61-57 decision, but has support from the State Senate, who passed a similar bill in 2009, and from the Governor.

Although 18 other states have already legalized medical marijuana, the new regulations in Illinois will be the strictest in the country. To qualify, the person must have one of 40 listed medical conditions as designated by a physician who has had a long relationship with the patient. After that, the person who is prescribed medidcal marijuana can receive up to 2.5 ounces every two weeks from one of the 60 dispensaries that are regulated by the state. The program is set to be a 4 year pilot which would require background checks for physicians as well as patients.

Both sides of the aisle voiced their opinions of this bill. The proponents claimed that the decriminalization would allow those who suffer from illnesses to get relief without being driven to drug dealers and possible jail time for drug crimes. Rep. Lou Land, a Democrat, went so far to say that “we’re turning granny into a criminal” with current laws.

This legislation will be reviewed by the Senate soon, but at this time is not considered a law. Yet, marijuana has been proven to be effective for treating nausea, pain, loss of appetite and other symptoms of serious illnesses. If you have been charged with possession of illegal drugs, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Rolling Meadows who knows the tactics of prosecutors.

image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net