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From Prohibition to Possession: Illinois' Cannabis Law Explained

Updated: Dec 26, 2022

Feeling hazy about Illinois' cannabis law? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's a quick rundown of the rules and regulations for adult-use cannabis in the Land of Lincoln. #cannabislaw #illinois


Illinois legalized the possession, use, and cultivation of cannabis by adults 21 and older on January 1, 2020, through the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (CRTA). The law also established a system for the legal sale of cannabis through licensed dispensaries, which began operations in January 2020.


The CRTA gave the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) the power to oversee the regulation and licensing of the cannabis industry in Illinois. The IDFPR is responsible for issuing licenses to cannabis businesses, including cultivators, processors, testing laboratories, and dispensaries. It also sets standards for the cultivation, processing, and testing of cannabis, as well as for the labeling and packaging of cannabis products.


Under the CRTA, adults 21 and older are allowed to possess up to 30 grams of cannabis flower, 500 milligrams of THC in a cannabis-infused product, and 5 grams of cannabis concentrate. However, It is still illegal to consume cannabis in public, and it is also illegal to drive while under the influence of cannabis.


The law allows for the cultivation of up to five cannabis plants per household, but only if the plants are kept in a secure, enclosed area that is not visible to the public.


The law also includes provisions for the expungement of criminal records for certain cannabis-related offenses and for the allocation of a portion of cannabis tax revenue to communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs.


If you have questions or would like to discuss this issue further, please feel free to contact the Bloomington, IL attorneys at Imeri Rogers, LLP.


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