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Illinois Cannabis Legalization Includes Expunging Past Cannabis Convictions

Cannabis Dispensary

As recreational marijuana legalization awaits Governor Pritzker’s signature into law, hundreds of thousands of marijuana convictions might qualify for expungement. It’s estimated that over three-quarters of a million Illinois residents might qualify.

Low-level marijuana convictions that are not associated with additional charges or violent crimes would qualify, according to ABC News. It’s said that about 770,000 convictions likely qualify. It’s not known whether those previously convicted will have to petition the court to have their records expunged or if they will be contacted that their conviction may qualify for expungement.

Rep. Kelly Cassidy, who had a hand in writing the bill, said, “Decades of prohibition hasn’t stopped use, prohibition hasn’t made us safer. Prohibition hasn’t built communities – in fact, it has destroyed them. Prohibition hasn’t created jobs; in fact, it has prevented people from finding work. Ending prohibition will allow us to bring this out of the shadows. Impose reasonable and thoughtful regulation and bring assurance of a tested and safer product.”