Great news from Illinois! The state Senate recently passed a bill that would lower the penalty of marijuana possession to no jail time and a fine of up to $125. The previous penalty for simple possession was a fine of $2,500 and up to one year in jail.
Seventeen states have now decriminalized cannabis. Many cities are taking similar steps when their state governments will not.
From the Chicago Tribune:
Republican Sen. Jason Barickman of Champaign voted for the measure, saying it would help ease the state’s financial woes by reducing court costs.
“Every person you talk to in this state wants us to find ways to save money,” Barickman said. “This legislation gives us a way to do that. It will save some money at the state level, and give us the opportunity to save money at the local level.”
During consideration in the House last month, Cassidy said:
