Illinois Bill Would Decriminalize Small Amounts Of Marijuana
(CBS) -- A person found with a relatively small amount of marijuana would not face criminal charges under a bill making the rounds in Springfield.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Heather Steans of Chicago would make possession of 10 grams or less of cannabis subject to a civil fine of $100 to $200.
The measure cleared the Criminal Law Committee on Wednesday and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
Last year, a bill that would decriminalize possession up to 15 grams passed the Legislature but Gov. Bruce Rauner demanded changes, including reducing the amount.
In addition to lowering the possession amount, the updated bill also increases the maximum fine.
Under current Illinois law, possession of up to 2.5 grams of marijuana is a class C misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,500; possession of 2.5-10 grams is a class B misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,500; and possession of 10-30 grams is a class 4 felony punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a $1,500 fine.
