Marijuana In Illinois
Introducing Your Guide to Marijuana in Illinois
As of Jan. 1, it’s legal to buy and smoke recreational marijuana in Illinois – whether you like it or not. What you need to know about the new era of pot policy in 2020.
US Health Authorities Need to Play a Larger Role in Cannabis Policy, a New Report Says
Sep 26, 2024 | Associated Press
With more Americans using ever-stronger marijuana, a federal advisory panel is calling for a public health approach that’s a big departure from “... Read More
Illinois Celebrates Dispensary Openings While Manufacturers Face Significant Challenges
Sep 23, 2024 | Dilpreet Raju — Capitol News Illinois
An independent diversity study found that while Illinois has awarded more licenses to women and people of color than any other regulated market in... Read More
Smell of Burnt Cannabis On Its Own Does Not Allow for a Vehicle Search, Illinois Supreme Court Says
Sep 19, 2024 | Amanda Vinicky
The stench of smoked pot doesn’t give a police officer the right to search an adult’s car without a warrant, according to a new ruling from the...... Read more
DEA Decision on Reclassifying Marijuana as Less Dangerous Drug Won’t Come Until After Election Day
Sep 3, 2024 | Associated Press
The hearing date means a final decision could well come in the next administration. While it’s possible it could precede the end of President Joe...... Read more
As Illinois Receives Praise for Its Cannabis Equity Efforts, Stakeholders Still Working on System’s Flaws
Aug 28, 2024 | Dilpreet Raju — Capitol News Illinois
Medical marijuana patients can now purchase cannabis grown by small businesses as part of their allotment, Illinois’ top cannabis regulator said, but...... Read more
5 Things to Know
You’ll have to be 21 years old to legally buy and use marijuana.
All marijuana sold in dispensaries across the state will be grown in Illinois (in one of the state’s licensed “cultivation centers”).
Want to grow your own? Only state-registered medical marijuana patients can do that. (The limit’s five per household.)
Medical marijuana patients also get first dibs on cannabis if supplies run short (and in the beginning, they may).
You won’t be allowed to smoke, vape or consume marijuana or pot products in public. That includes bars and restaurants.
Illinois Dispensaries
Right now, there are 55 pot shops in Illinois catering to medical marijuana users. (The state calls them “cannabis dispensaries.”) Each of these shops is allowed to open a second location to sell recreational marijuana, so that number will only grow. Use our map to see which shops are open, and where they’re located.
Related Stories
Bill That Would Restrict Sale of Delta-8 and Hemp-Derived Products in Illinois Stalls in State House
May 29, 2024
Sales of delta-8 and other hemp-derived snacks, drinks and products will continue unabated in Illinois despite potential safety concerns, after the state legislature adjourned early Wednesday morning without passing new regulations.
Cannabis Bill Moving Forward in Springfield Restricts Sale of ‘Delta-8’ and THC, Puts Limits on CBD Products
May 24, 2024
Starting in July, Illinois would ban the sale of any hemp-derived THC, or delta-8, from being sold, except at state-licensed cannabis dispensaries. That means those products would no longer be sold at breweries, gas stations and specialty lounges and stores.
Daily Marijuana Use Outpaces Daily Drinking in the US, a New Study Says
May 22, 2024
Alcohol is still more widely used, but 2022 was the first time this intensive level of marijuana use overtook daily and near-daily drinking, said the study’s author.
