SPRINGFIELD – Legislation supported by State Senator Ram Villivalam that would allow for the legal purchase, possession, and taxation of cannabis was signed into law today.

“I am proud to have supported recreational cannabis legislation that has strong social and economic justice provisions,” Villivalam said. “From the research that undeniably illustrates that this is good public policy to the polling that shows that there is broad base of support from residents in the state of Illinois, legalizing cannabis makes sense for our state.”

House Bill 1438:
• Provides law enforcement with the funding and tools to oversee usage.
• Creates a legal industry that ensures minority participation with regard to both equity in ownership and quality employment.
• Expunges minor cannabis offenses to end the vicious cycle of the criminal justice system.
• Provides revenue to the state of Illinois.

The use and possession of cannabis in Illinois become legal Jan. 1, 2020.