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* I’m told the Senate will recess for an Executive Committee hearing at around 2 o’clock this afternoon. The committee will take up the cannabis legalization bill (Senate Amendment 2 to House Bill 1438) at that hearing.
The Senate will reconvene at about 5:30 this afternoon. The plan is to run the cannabis bill on the floor after a few warmup bills.
* Hannah Meisel…
Republicans on Tuesday said they will likely provide “a handful” of votes to legalize marijuana now that a new amendment to SB 7 establishes a different path to expunge the records of those convicted of cannabis-related offenses — the governor’s pardon power.
A week ago Republican leaders told The Daily Line no member of their caucus would vote for to the long-running effort to legalize marijuana.
State Sen. Toi Hutchinson (D-Olympia Fields) told The Daily Line that she backed the change to the bill’s original language of automatic expungement of records via legislation to gubernatorial action.
In Illinois, a governor has the ability to pardon with “permission to expunge.” If a person is granted a pardon, with permission to expunge, he or she can then file a petition to expunge the pardoned offense, according to state guidelines.
“The expungement piece…we boosted the constitutionality of what it is we’re attempting to do and that was a significant concern for the Republican caucus and that brings folks back on board,” Hutchinson said. “That was one of the biggest sticking points.”
The original language in SB 7 dropped on May 4, and the Republicans who had been negotiating the bill for months — including State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) — began saying both privately and in the media that they could no longer support the bill. […]
“This is about to be the single-biggest piece of criminal justice reform in one piece of legislation in the country, and I would daresay the world,” Hutchinson said. “This is big, this is big, and I didn’t think this was going to happen. And I’m really proud of it. And nothing would make me happier than to see — if we actually make it to a bipartisan roll call because we tried and because it worked, that’s a good thing.”
This thing has legs, campers.
…Adding… Press release…
Americans for Prosperity-Illinois (AFP-IL) and the Reason Foundation issued a letter to lawmakers in support of the expungement reforms included in Senate Bill 7, which would allow for the legal cultivation, sale, and possession of cannabis in regulated amounts statewide. The groups also recommended needed reforms to the legislation in order for it the best achieve its goals. AFP-IL believes any effort to legalize recreational marijuana should enhance public safety, remove barriers to help individuals get a second chance, and be free of cronyism and overregulation.
The letter is here. There will be no amendments after Senate action barring a disastrous drafting error, however. The language is a Senate amendment to a House bill. Once the Senate passes it, the House has to either concur or non-concur.
…Adding… Some deets…
…Adding… Press release…
Legalize Illinois praised Clergy for a New Drug Policy today for a letter it issued calling on the Illinois General Assembly immediately to legalize recreational cannabis for adult use. The letter, signed by 58 members of the clergy, cites the social justice and public safety aspects of the bill currently under consideration as the most urgent to support it.
“As clergy, we care deeply about social justice. The criminalization of cannabis, even for simple possession, has crippled the lives of people of color disproportionately for more than four decades. This is why we – the undersigned – believe it is time to move to a system of legal, regulated and taxed adult-use cannabis in Illinois,” the letter states.
“Current cannabis laws, fines, and arrests are carried out with staggering racial bias. The illicit market, which prohibition makes inevitable, continues to breed violence in our poorest communities all across Illinois,” the clergy members wrote.
The letter also notes that “regulation would make Illinois a safer state. It would allow us to educate adults, informing them about what a product contains and enabling them to make informed decisions. Banning sales by law to those under 21 would help to limit access to our youth. Under prohibition, these measures are not possible.”
Clergy for a New Drug Policy, led by Executive Director Rev. Alexander Sharp, also cited the bill’s provisions that would provide expungement of past low-level cannabis arrests and convictions while allocating “funds to communities ravaged by the War on Drugs.”
“We cannot wait any longer to make this the law of the land in Illinois. We urge you to vote yes on a regulatory system that works for all of Illinois,” the letter concludes.
*** UPDATE 1 *** Good…
Attention Wakanna investors.
You might consider this the Van Pelt amendment:
A 2-year ban on state lawmakers, regulatory employees, or their direct family members from holding a financial interest in state-licensed cannabis companies. pic.twitter.com/qmNEhFfg5b
— Mark Maxwell (@WCIA3Mark) May 29, 2019
Other new things in IL marijuana bill: Information about licenses would become open public records, subject to state FOIA. #twill
— Peter Hancock (@PeterQHancock) May 29, 2019
*** UPDATE 2 *** Here we go…
Join us for LIVE coverage of the 3:00 PM Senate Executive Committee Hearing (HB 1438 - SA#2 Cannabis) @BlueRoomStream #twill #Illinois
— BlueRoomStream (@BlueRoomStream) May 29, 2019
*** UPDATE 3 *** Republican Sen. Jason Barickman…
I believe that the people of Illinois want our government to give individuals freedom over their life decisions. Cannabis use is largely a personal choice and the primary role of government should be to adopt appropriate safeguards to protect minors and the public when an individual’s use puts others in harm’s way. This legislation puts those safeguards in place.
Barickman and GOP Sen. Neil Anderson have signed on as hyphenated co-sponsors.
posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:03 am
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So if patients were never allowed to grow under the original medical cannabis program because law enforcement cried wolf then why should their claims be taken serious this time around? Also i got a mailer yesterday from the folks opposed to legalization, just the usual scare tactics on a nice glossy flyer.
Comment by Kentucky Bluegrass x Featherbed Bent x Northern California Sinsemilla Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:09 am
Terrific and Godspeed to this reform effort.
It’s great to see some Republican support and great to unite with people who are often opponents on other issues.
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:12 am
Completely agree Rich. This compromise IMO signals that cannabis legalization is going to pass. While it may not have everything we want, it is historical and significant. We will be the first state to do it legislatively to include retails sales. Vermont passage did not include retail sales.
Comment by Illinois Resident Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:13 am
So home grow for only medical patients but they are changing the penalty for growing under 5 plants to a civil violation instead of a misdemeanor.
Am I reading that right?
Comment by Dr. GreenThumb Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:14 am
What a terribly tragic several days for Illinois. I’ve never wanted to leave Illinois before, but I do now, and there are hundreds of thousands of people like me. Drugs, Gambling, Highers Taxes, and an attack on human life. All in the matter of a few days. So terribly tragic.
Comment by Unpopular Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:15 am
Based on my scan home grown is out. I see Section 55-28. Restricted cannabis zones.
I’m out of my depth, but would the inverse be possible? (i.e. a municipality could pass an ordinance expanding home grown) Or does this outlaw that implicitly in the legislation?
Comment by njt Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:21 am
Home grow for patients, not everyone else. I think the people freaking out about this might not know what goes in to growing cannabis. Unless you have a decent chunk of money, space, and time to devote, you’re much better off just buying it.
Regardless, in two or three years they’ll probably open up homegrow anyway. This is the ceiling that needs to be knocked down first.
Comment by PJ Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:23 am
Bye Unpopular. Cannabis legalization is mainstream. We will see a lot more people coming to our state now then leaving it.
Comment by Illinois Resident Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:25 am
Unpopular
Hundreds of thousands? Really. You know them all personally to be able to say that? You’ve got a lot of friends.
If you are that unhappy then leave. Just stop whining about it
Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:26 am
What a terribly tragic several days for Illinois. “I’ve never wanted to leave Illinois before, but I do now, and there are hundreds of thousands of people like me. Drugs, Gambling, Highers Taxes, and an attack on human life. All in the matter of a few days. So terribly tragic.”
Bye, drive safely.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:27 am
@PJ,
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:27 am
===What a terribly tragic several days for Illinois===
Drama queen.
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:28 am
Unpopular, I assume you have never had alcohol in your life because guess what that is a drug. Coffee? Prescription medication? Higher taxes for the rich and well off. Man this is so scary.
Comment by Illinois Resident Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:28 am
==Not allowing homegrow is all about $$$==
It’s about votes. Home grow is the piece that makes the most people nervous. They wanted it, but they were willing to give on it because of how contentious it is right now. If you’d rather keep the current system than pass an otherwise excellent bill because of home grow, I dunno what to tell you. Get a medical card, I guess.
Comment by PJ Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:33 am
PJ, homegrow does not take much money, time or space. You’re talking less than $300 initial setup, a 2′x4′ space, and in 10 weeks you’d have at least 1 ounce per plant.
However, I do agree that it’s better to pass the bill as-is now, than to hold out for home grow for all. Home grow for all will come in time, and those that already do aren’t going to stop. Regardless, it’s about votes, and the votes are due to $$$, both for the cannabis industry, but mostly for the police departments.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:37 am
Growing under 5 plants is changing to a civil violation ticket up to $200. Today it’s a misdemeanor.
If that’s true then home grow under 5 plants for people who aren’t medical patients is only a $200 ticket.
proponents should stop freaking out. Seems like a decent compromise as this would be a $200 fine for violating it.
I could be reading it wrong as well.
Comment by Dr. GreenThumb Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:38 am
===What a terribly tragic several days for Illinois===
Elections have consequences. Leave if you wish, or campaign for change.
Comment by Robert the Bruce Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:38 am
I must say I am pretty excited for our state if/when cannabis legalization passes. With all of the surrounding states still in prohibition mode (not including Michigan), I think this will absolutely help tourism and the economy. Not everyone travels to Colorado just to see the mountains.
Comment by Illinois Resident Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:38 am
===Not everyone travels to Colorado just to see the mountains. ===
Colorado has mountains? /s
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:39 am
“It’s about votes. Home grow is the piece that makes the most people nervous. They wanted it, but they were willing to give on it because of how contentious it is right now. If you’d rather keep the current system than pass an otherwise excellent bill because of home grow, I dunno what to tell you. Get a medical card, I guess.”
How can growing a legal plant be contentious?
I’ll take my answer offline.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:40 am
Unpopular-
Should I get the smelling salts, Pittypat?
Comment by efudd Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:42 am
–the governor’s pardon power.–
I figured this might be coming. Adds a handful of GOPers who were nervous about voting for expungement.
That’s why you paid all that money for the Big Chair, JB, to use the office’s significant power to be in charge and matriculate the ball down the field.
You were going to take the heat for clearing records, anyway, no matter how it’s done. FWIW, you’ll be taking a heavy load off a lot of people. That’s a good thing.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:43 am
The biggest beef I have with the current wording is that it doesn’t go into effect until January of 2020. I don’t see the point of that at all. If you’re going to legalize, then legalize immediately and delay recreational dispensaries until January 2020…
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:44 am
==State Sen. Toi Hutchinson (D-Olympia Fields)==
has all the makings of a great Leader. I’d vote for her to be the next President of the Senate.
Comment by A guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:53 am
Turned into a giveaway to a select few and still not legal to grow at home. Bad bill, not legalization. Home grow will never see the light of day for non rec…Bet.
Comment by The Cannacrat Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:53 am
Agree with you Loki but it is what it is.
Comment by Illinois Resident Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:53 am
“If you’re going to legalize, then legalize immediately and delay recreational dispensaries until January 2020…”
THIS. I realize that people will argue that it’ll create gray-market sales. Who cares? We already have unlimited black-market sales, and this bill is AS MUCH if not MORE about the social justice as it is about having some weed to enjoy.
Let’s stop the cycle of incarceration immediately, the taxation can wait till Jan 1.
Comment by Progressive Guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:54 am
==I’ve never wanted to leave Illinois before, but I do now==
Make sure not to look back when leaving…for fear of being turned into a pillar of salt.
Comment by Jocko Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:54 am
I really just hope J.B. follows through with the pardons and expungements. It seems like he’s all in, but the skeptic in me is still nervous.
Comment by Hyde Parker Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:54 am
Non-med*
Comment by TheCannacrat Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:55 am
– Home grow will never see the light of day for non rec…Bet.–
My Magic 8-Ball begs to differ. Confirmed it with my Jump to Conclusions Mat.
“Never” is a very long time.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:57 am
==Let’s stop the cycle of incarceration
immediately, the taxation can wait till Jan 1.==
We’ll agree on part 1. On part 2…you new around here?
Comment by A guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:58 am
See you all in the gallery this evening! I’ll be the guy who looks like a regular, well dressed and groomed American. I could be sitting by someone in a tie-dye tshirt who is also a job-having, tax-paying, productive member of society. Stop by and say hi!
Comment by Harvest76 Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:59 am
===Home grow will never see the light of day for non rec…Bet. ===
You must’ve missed the Bruce Rauner years because you sound just like him.
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:02 am
Doesn’t the medical cannabis program end in 2020?
Comment by Hey oh. Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:08 am
Well rec home grow doesn’t produce tax revenues and produces some problems so that seems like an easy thing to give up.
So what is the over/under on actual tax revenue since I am assuming like video poker this isn’t going to hit it’s revenue number?
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:11 am
OneMan, what problems do you think home grow produces? Removing CO2 from the atmosphere and replenishing O2?
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:16 am
At the risk of piling on:
===Unpopular ==Drugs, Gambling, Higher Taxes, and an attack on human life.
I understand the abortion issue (attack on human life) is a personal thing so I will respect your choice. But the rest?
Drugs have been around forever. I am 60 years old and cannabis(and other drugs) was easily available a long time ago and legalizing it is just a formality. In the early 80’s I worked the graveyard shift at a 7-11 in Lombard. On weekends I would put a tray of fresh brownies out at 11pm and by 2am they were gone and it was not because of people’s sweet tooth.
Same thing with gambling. Gambling has always been around and has become more widespread because of the internet. IMO Higher taxes are the cost of paying to be able to live in a relatively civilized society.
Unpopular- please click your heels together three times and you will be back in Kansas by morning. The rest of us live in the real world
Comment by Big Jer Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:17 am
“I’ve never wanted to leave Illinois before, but I do now.” — Don’t let the door hit you in the tuchis.
Comment by Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:19 am
=What a terribly tragic several days for Illinois. I’ve never wanted to leave Illinois before, but I do now, and there are hundreds of thousands of people like me. Drugs, Gambling, Highers Taxes, and an attack on human life. All in the matter of a few days. So terribly tragic.= Unpopular
Username checks out.
Comment by Former State Worker Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:29 am
“Home grow will never see the light of day for non rec…Bet”
Is the Bernie Sanders campaign hiring? We can’t let this great reform effort be ruined by one aspect, home grow, and blow everything up because not everyone gets what is wanted. I want home grow, too, but don’t want to kill this effort. It’s historic.
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:30 am
Speaking as someone who was really looking forward to being able to grow at home, I can accept the compromise if it leads to legalization. We can and will expand it in the future, just as we are now with the medical bill. We need to stop arresting people and ruining lives over a plant ASAP.
@Loki, you’re correct, startup costs are $300 - $500 and a Sunday afternoon of research. There are plenty of internet resources full of info and forums where you can get help. It would not be beyond most people, but I also don’t think that most people would try.
Comment by LetsLegalizeIt Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:35 am
LetsLegalizeIt - I agree.
And I reiterate, those that are currently growing at home, do so under the radar, and will continue to do so regardless of whether the bill contains home grow language or not. The biggest benefit of this bill is not the home grow language. It’s the language that legalizes recreational marijuana and also the language that expunges past crimes.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:45 am
Here we go folks. I’m will be waiting with bated breath. Will be praying all afternoon. I have kids and grandchildren. I have tears in my eyes . god bless Jb and all that worked so tirelessly on this . This is it . Unbelievable. I am in awe
Comment by Illinois res Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:50 am
I’ll be waiting with a rolled joint in hand. Ready to celebrate in style…
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:52 am
The medical program isnt permanent yet and is set to expire the summer of 2020. Hope med patients are all finished growing by then…
Comment by Hey oh. Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:53 am
I wouldn’t be surprised that as part of the expiration of the medical program, and thereby the elimination of any home grow in Illinois (assuming this passes), that the ILGA would take that as an opportunity to make home grow legal for all.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:55 am
This is a step in the right direction. Fingers crossed, I truly hope this goes through. Cannabis has helped me beat brain cancer and allowed me to start a family. It is time the rest of Illinois can benefit from this wonderful gift from God.
Comment by bout time Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:56 am
Loki, Problems home grow produce, none of these are huge but they are problems.
RFI (Radio interference) some popular grow lights produce electical noise way beyond federal standards. Not only can this cause problems for neighbors (can’t listen to a radio, OTA TV issues, etc) but they make it easy to identify where grow is occurring. Unless you intefear with ATC or public safety the odds of the FCC showing up at your door are slim, but the RFI issue is a problem for some. For a bit of trivia in Germany listening to the radio is considered a right and the feds will be there within 24 hours to investigate. Again, if you are not interfering with public safety the FCC isn’t likely to visit. It can also impact older cable systems.
http://www.arrl.org/grow-light-rfi
https://lushledlighting.com/rfi-can-land-visit-police-growing-problem-hps/
Robery, in part due to above issues you can identify grow locations and rob them. Happens with larger scale operations but I suspect it would happen with smaller operations as well. There are a variety of estimates of the value of a pot plant, I am going to use the $3,000 value for the argument. Something in your home with 15,000 that is untracable is a bit of an inviting theft target. If you google it, it is not an unheard of crime,
General safety, this one also minor but at some point your going to have an issue with a pet or a kid eating a plant.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:57 am
Glad to see that the “social equity” tent is big enough to include preferences for veterans. Veteran preferences strengthen this Bill, make it more bipartisan and improve its chances of becoming law. All Veterans should be a part of any Bill addressing “social equity.”
Comment by Gen Patton Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 11:59 am
RFI is not a home grow issue. It’s a consumer issue dealing with items that don’t meet FCC standards. General safety is not a home grow issue since the active components in marijuana need heat to be activated. So it’s no different than normal household plant safety. Robbery is an issue with home grow, but no different than owning a high-end TV or expensive jewelry.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 12:05 pm
Would a medical caregiver and patient be allowed to grow?
Comment by Interested Illinois Guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 12:06 pm
Good news and I hope it passes.
I wonder how long our window will be to profit from pot tourism. Bernie, Mayor Pete, Kamala, Beto, and Booker are all pro-legalization, though Biden and Warren are in favor of letting the states decide.
Comment by Robert the Bruce Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 12:30 pm
completely excellent reporting by Ms. Driscoll in a short window
Comment by Central Illinois Center Right Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 12:37 pm
Loki - I wouldn’t be surprised that as part of the expiration of the medical program, and thereby the elimination of any home grow in Illinois (assuming this passes), that the ILGA would take that as an opportunity to make home grow legal for all.
Glad someone picked up on this, better grow them quickly. “He who controls the spice controls the universe”
Comment by Hey oh. Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 12:47 pm
Fingers crossed for passage! No bill is going to be perfect, but perfect should not be the enemy of the good. This will be good for Illinois; lots less arrests and a little more revenue.
Comment by Hyrim Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 12:56 pm
This is all well and good, but does it have a good chance to pass the House? Won’t matter how easily it flies through the Senate if reps Moylan, Flowers, etc. get their way. I’m still assuming the house dems will fumble away the win at the goal line, as per SOP
Comment by Lester Holt’s Mustache Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 1:23 pm
C-SPAN-type channel for live vote coverage?
Lake Forest IL police caught some young people smoking pot at the beach. “Recruited” them to tell them what friend of theirs sold. Now, that 20 year old young man who sold to his “friends” is facing felony charges… today! Look it up. Police… wow. just wow. I suppose the police would have arrested women for trying to vote, because it was against the law. And I suppose the police would have arrested interracial married couples, because that, too, was against the law.
I had skin cancer. Not bad enough to get a card. I rubbed cbd w/active thc on the sores. Gone!
With passage, I would like to choose sativa sometimes. I have tinnitus, and sativa cures it. Almost all black market weed is indica, hence the couch lock stereotype.
My daddy flew jets for the Navy. He was honest. He liked to have fun, like everyone. He choose alcohol because cannabis was illegal. He’s dead.
Legalize, or maybe I will move to CO, WA, OR, CA, DC, HI, AK, I mean come on, already! Felonies for possessing an ounce of medicine/recreation? Bah.
Comment by S. Ballgame Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 1:47 pm
“Won’t matter how easily it flies through the Senate if reps Moylan, Flowers, etc. get their way.”
Since Republicans are putting up a few votes for the expungement trade-off, might they put a few House votes together to overcome the Democratic no votes?
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 2:02 pm
Looks like the executive hearing is now scheduled for 3 pm today. Fingers crossed!
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 2:26 pm
Where exactly does it say that 5 plants would be turned into a civil violation? That’s decriminalization right? Sounds like it’d be unthinkable for law enforcement to waste money on an investigation that only results in a $200 fine, so it’s obviously a step towards allowing it for all.
Comment by Charlie kilo Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:00 pm
Does it become legal the instant Governor Pritzker signs this bill?
BTW, if Pritzker signs this bill, he will be one of the greatest governors this state, no… nation, has ever known.
Presidential Pritzker?
Comment by S. Ballgame Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:02 pm
10100HB1438sam002 - 601 - LRB101 04919 RLC 61359 a
1 purchaser of the equipment if the seller or purchaser is a
2 craft grower, cultivation center, or infuser organization
3 licensed under the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act.
4 (Source: P.A. 99-697, eff. 7-29-16.)
5 (720 ILCS 550/8) (from Ch. 56 1/2, par. 708)
6 Sec. 8. Except as otherwise provided in the Cannabis
7 Regulation and Tax Act, it It is unlawful for any person
8 knowingly to produce the Cannabis cannabis sativa plant or to
9 possess such plants unless production or possession has been
10 authorized pursuant to the provisions of Section 11 or 15.2 of
11 the Act. Any person who violates this Section with respect to
12 production or possession of:
13 (a) Not more than 5 plants is guilty of a civil violation
14 punishable by a minimum fine of $100 and a maximum fine of
15 $200. The proceeds of the fine are payable to the clerk of the
16 circuit court. Within 30 days after the deposit of the fine,
17 the clerk shall distribute the proceeds of the fine as follows:
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:03 pm
Where exactly does it say that 5 plants would be turned into a civil violation?
Page 601
(a) Not more than 5 plants is guilty of a civil violation punishable by a minimum fine of $100 and a maximum fine of $200.
Comment by Illinois_Sixth Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:04 pm
does anyone have the blue room password?
Comment by njt Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:09 pm
===Where exactly does it say that 5 plants would be===
You could’ve saved some kindly folks some time by just clicking on the link above and search for “5 plants.” This isn’t Google.
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:10 pm
nvm sorry Rich didn’t know it was a subscription feel free to delete these commments
Comment by njt Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:13 pm
password is receivables
Comment by yup Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:16 pm
As my trusted attorney has advised me, the cops don’t usually charge someone with violating the law in terms of cultivation of plants based on the plant numbers. They most always charge based on the weight of the plants, hopefully when this bill passes the police will issue the citations and not bust out the scales to weigh the plants and dirt.
Comment by Kentucky Bluegrass x Featherbed Bent x Northern California Sinsemilla Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:24 pm
Yes and the cops will include the leaves, stalk and WET rootball to deliberately inflate their success statistics, and the criminal charges. Like all wars, the first victim is truth.
Next year Illinois may see a lot of economic activity in the privacy fence and greenhouse construction industry. That Sun porch on the south side of the house may make more sense now.
Comment by Al Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:36 pm
did I miss the vote? its 3:45PM and the live stream is dead..
Comment by nick Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:46 pm
Nick, the vote hasn’t happened yet. The committee meeting still hasn’t started.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:49 pm
=We can and will expand it in the future=
Yes, controversial legislation often requires a series of steps to perfect–eg. ACA.
Comment by James Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 3:49 pm
#BREAKING: Senate Executive Committee is hearing the SA#2 Cannabis Bill. LIVE NOW @BlueRoomStream
#twill #Illinois #CannabisBusiness. Guys/Gals fingers crossed.
Comment by Arthur P. Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:11 pm
Whoopsy….there goes the 2 cents turned into thousands, turned into even more riches investment seminars from the Senator.
Comment by A guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:15 pm
===The biggest beef I have with the current wording is that it doesn’t go into effect until January of 2020.===
It takes time to get all the legal and logistical infrastructure in place: issuing licenses, adopting (or at least proposing) administrative rules. The rules writers at whatever agency oversees this will have some excellent job security.
Comment by Nick Name Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:22 pm
F*ck the Illinois Police Association. Take care of their concerns and they’re still against it. What a bunch of fools.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:25 pm
Loki, can you explain the $300 figure you mentioned? I think that is quite misleading. You’re not going to grow 5 quality indoor plants for anywhere close to $300, if you don’t already have the lights and nutients.
Comment by 815 Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:27 pm
815, I cite figures based on intimate knowledge…
You can buy a tent online for ~70, you can make a light out of off-the-shelf hardware components and LED bulbs for ~40, and the miscellaneous items (fan, speed controller, filter, etc.) will bring you up to around $300.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:29 pm
It passed out of committee, 13-3-2.
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:30 pm
And you are correct that you won’t get 5 “quality” plants with that set up. But I define quality as 2-3 ounces per plant. You will definitely get an ounce per plant with that setup, however.
Comment by Loki Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:31 pm
If the Illinois Police Association is still against it, can we put homegrown back in?
815, google “Spacebucket”.
Comment by TopHatMonocle Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:34 pm
When does it hit the Senate floor for a vote??
Comment by Freedom for the People Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:34 pm
For years my son has been badgering me to watch Rick and Morty. If this bill passes, I’m out of excuses.
Comment by Lake County Mom Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:36 pm
So now what? We just wait till Pritzker signs the thing and then we celebrate? Sorry for my ignorance.
Comment by Linko Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:38 pm
@LCM
That show is entertaining without ‘enhancements’.
Comment by Cubs in '16 Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:39 pm
@Freedom for the People:
I believe they’re running it through at 5:30 p.m. this evening.
Comment by Medical Patient Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:41 pm
The Senate Executive Committee has voted to approve HB1438 to legalize adult-use #cannabis. It will now move to the full Senate for debate. #twill
They’ll vote on it at around 5:30ish am I right?
Comment by Arthur P. Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:42 pm
You need about 30 watts of light per square foot of your tent. You talked about a 2×4 area, so that’s 240 watts. Your not going to build a 240 watt led setup for $40. No way. Then you’ve got to buy the seeds, that’s $50 min from any feedback. Growing in the summer? Gonna need a dehumidifier or you’re going to get bud root. Going in the winter, gonna need a humidifier. Then there’s the extra for the electric bill each month.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:42 pm
You can get away with $500 for a setup. 600w digital mh/hps with air cooled reflector $160, make your own 4×4 box out of plywood around $100, 6in inline fan $55 , filter $50 for zero smell some duct, 5 gallon smart pots around $7 Amazon, some FFOF soil $22 some seeds $50-$100 and you rolling. It all come up to $494. You don’t need any nutes for the first 4 weeks and even that full line up of Fox Farm would run you like $35.
Comment by Arthur P. Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:53 pm
=Your not going to build a 240 watt led setup for $40. No way.=
Once upon a time in my youth I grew 3 plants at a time under 5 florescent shop lights and got a couple ounces at a time. That setup cost me less than $50. Marijuana practically grows itself if you arent trying to breed the next Diesel x Herer bomb. They dont call it weed for nothin.
Comment by Harvest76 Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 4:53 pm
Shop lights? Lol. That’s no where near the light spectrum that cannabis needs. that must have been some larfy crap that would barely effect you. This is very misleading to anyone thinking about growing.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:01 pm
Sooooo… is the vote happening today or not?
Comment by thatguy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:04 pm
== RFI is not a home grow issue. It’s a consumer issue dealing with items that don’t meet FCC standards.==
Normally it has been found (I have spoken with people who deal with this issue) the consumer (that is the person who owns the grow light) isn’t noticing the problem or isn’t caring. They also point out (caught a lecture on this issue in part at Fermilab a couple of years ago) that when it gets looked into in a friendly waythe growers don’t get upset, they get concerned (due to the robbery and law enforcement issues) and will even turn over the offening instrument for research purposes.
They also said no one has ever invited them in to see their roses. The market for these devices is the growth of pot plants, not a value judgement, but the majority market. More people grow at home, more people use grow lights, more grow lights, more RFI noise. RFI noise growth, generically not just due to grow lights, is no pun intended a growthing problem. It’s a bit like arguing that an issue related to agraculture (lets say insectiside runoff, isn’t an agracutlural issue but an issue with the insectiside)
== General safety is not a home grow issue since the active components in marijuana need heat to be activated. ==
Learned something new today. Also learned not to trust movie depcitions of guys eating pot to hide it from the cops. Thanks! Question back, would taking some ‘off a plant’ be more or less noticable than taking a slug out a bottle of booze?
== So it’s no different than normal household plant safety. Robbery is an issue with home grow, but no different than owning a high-end TV or expensive jewelry.==
A lot easeir to get a MJ plant out of a house than a huge TV, also thanks to the RFI, I can figure out who is growing pot much easier than figuring out who has expensive jewelry.
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:06 pm
Shop lights why not? With some T8 or T5 in 6500k. You can grow some nice plants. Keep the light close veg for a short period of time some training and you’ll get couple of oz’s.
Comment by Arthur P. Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:12 pm
It happened and it worked, person who couldn’t be bothered to come up with a name. I’m not trying to suggest anyone is going to try it and be happy with the results, so no need to put words in my mouth either.
Comment by Harvest76 Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:13 pm
seriously though, when is the vote??
Comment by thatguy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:16 pm
6500k is for veg. You want 3500k or less for bloom.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:18 pm
I think it’s at 5:30
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:19 pm
Shut up about the lights, I want info on passage not stupid arguments
Comment by A guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:19 pm
People. Be patient. This is the General Assembly. Nothing, literally nothing, is done fast until it is. lol
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:21 pm
Could this bill be a lifeline for Illinois farmers?
Comment by Lake County Mom Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:23 pm
That’s right let’s stop arguing about something it’s not important and focus on the real thing “Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act”
Comment by Arthur P. Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:24 pm
Lake county mom, no lol, that would be hemp. Marijuana is not going to be growing out in the open. Farmers would be at an advantage for already having the land, but the start up costs would be too much for a farmer who’s already hurting. Plus there’s only going to be so many cultivation licenses allowed.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:30 pm
I’ve just been commenting on the misleading information. If you don’t want to read it skip it.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:31 pm
Only been waiting 50 years for this. lets just get ‘er done…
Comment by One more dude Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:35 pm
So after full senate vote, does the house just need to concur? What happens next? This one originated in the senate.
Comment by A guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:41 pm
Never mind, should have read the thread, it’s an amendment to a house bill
Comment by A guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 5:43 pm
It’s show time.
Comment by Lake County Mom Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:01 pm
The Senate has convened. You can watch at http://www.ilga.gov/senateaudvid.asp#
Comment by Lake County Mom Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:03 pm
It’s on the Senate floor now, baby.
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:12 pm
Fingers crossed!
Comment by A guy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:14 pm
Here for the party. Sat in the last row so I can be as high as possible.
Comment by Harvest76 Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:16 pm
Thanks for the update on the first two Republicans signing on as co-sponsers Rich, it’s great news and hopefully writing on the wall.
Comment by Hopefull Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:28 pm
Praying that this bill fails.
Comment by Unpopular Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:40 pm
Unpopular - Indiana is right next door to us. Maybe that will work out better for you.
Comment by Illinois Resident Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:43 pm
It’s interesting how many master gardeners are outing themselves on here.
Comment by Responsa Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:47 pm
Unpopular, I thought you said you were leaving?
Comment by Harvest76 Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:50 pm
Will the House concur on this before Friday, if this passes?
Comment by doggieboy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:53 pm
It passed.
Comment by Hopefull Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:54 pm
Passed the Senate with 38.
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:55 pm
Wow. Just wow.
Comment by Lake County Mom Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:55 pm
It passed
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:55 pm
Now goes to the House. Any predictions?
Comment by Illinois Resident Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:56 pm
I am on the job hunt now. I will be happy to leave this horrible state behind, but saddened that I was driven out by political insanity.
Comment by Unpopular Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:58 pm
Good work everyone
Comment by Biker Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 6:59 pm
When does the house vote on it?
Comment by BerryOG Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:00 pm
This is a House bill. Didn’t it already pass in the House to get here?
Comment by One more dude Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:01 pm
Guess it has to go back because they changed it…
Comment by One more dude Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:02 pm
===saddened that I was driven out by political insanity.===
The fact that Rauner’s four years didn’t drive you away says a lot.
Comment by Cubs in '16 Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:04 pm
It may be a house bill, but it was amended so the house has to concur or accept that amendment if they accept and do not push to add any additional amendments it will go to the governor. If they amend the whole process starts over again.
Comment by doggieboy Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:04 pm
will the house be voting on it today?
Comment by Borble Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:08 pm
Isn’t Marty Moylab in the house?
Comment by BerryOG Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:08 pm
Now, how do we combat HR0157? Anyone worried?
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:16 pm
Unpopular - Is this satire or do you really believe this stuff. Driven out of the state because adults may soon be able to buy cannabis at stores just like alcohol?
Comment by Illinois Resident Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:27 pm
Wasn’t there only 60 sponsors on that HR0157? Hopefully at least one changes their mind and withdraws
Comment by BerryOG Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 7:33 pm
Quite possibly the greediest implementation of rec of any state. Steans and Cassidy bait and switch on home grow is sickening. Med License holders paid for their own monopoly. If you a rich you can grow pot but if you are poor and grow a few plants we are locking your ass up. So much for “legalization”
Comment by sad illinoisian Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 8:52 pm
Wow. Something amazing happens and it draws out every naysayer from under their rock and pull everyone who knows nothing about the process out into the sun. That’s some pretty powerful stuff that cannabis.
Comment by Lt Guv Wednesday, May 29, 19 @ 10:19 pm
How did each senator vote?
Comment by S. Ballgame Thursday, May 30, 19 @ 7:39 am
Marty Moylan, Des Plaines:
https://www.desplaines.org/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?blobid=26328
Published garbage reports that are supposed to show where they spent taxpayer dollars.
This report screams FRAUD.
Comment by S. Ballgame Thursday, May 30, 19 @ 7:46 am
Sad Illinoisan,
I’m sure people with serious medical conditions they need cannabis to help with would gladly trade the pain they suffer, and their vast medical expenses, for the right to home grow.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, May 30, 19 @ 10:20 am
For those of you wanting to abandon support of this bill because it excludes home grow provisions. You’ll be fighting for home grow if you reject this bill. You’ll be fighting for homegrow if you accept this bill. You’ll be fighting for home grow in either case. So it would be intelligent to support this bill regardless and get the added bonus of legalized cannabis consumption while you continue your fight for home grow. It’s a no brainer folks.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, May 30, 19 @ 4:13 pm
Looks like a “no”.
http://www.ilga.gov/houseaudvid.asp#
Lots of “nos” and the people who support most parts are waffling.
Sad.
Comment by S. Ballgame Friday, May 31, 19 @ 1:28 pm