Illinois Law

llinois’ marijuana penalties (720 ILCS § 550) are rather harsh. Penalties range from 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,500 for possession of less than 2.5 grams of marijuana or anywhere from one to three years in a state penitentiary and fines of up to $25,000 for possession of more than 30 grams of marijuana.

Recently, many cities allow police officers the option to cite marijuana offenders and punish possession of small amounts with only a small fine. Chicago became one of those cities when Mayor Emmanuel approved an ordinance allowing police officers to cite those in possession of 15 grams or less of marijuana. Marijuana violators in the Chicago face fines of $200-500.

Learn more about  Illinois marijuana law: click here