Two years after legalizing “recreational” marijuana, some foolish lawmakers are sprinting ahead with legislation to allow for Illinoisans 21 and older to grow up to 5 marijuana plants in their home. The bill number is HB 4799 and is sponsored by Carol Ammons (D-Urbana), Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago), Kambium Buckner (D-Chicago) and Aaron Ortiz (D-Chicago).
There is ample evidence to demonstrate that home grows are a recipe for disaster. The state of Colorado, which legalized pot in 2012, is a prime example of bad marijuana policy. We often use Colorado as our reference point because they have the best data in the nation when it comes to drugs, thanks to the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area.
Colorado allows marijuana to be grown in homes. As a result, foreign drug cartels have cashed in and the black-market is thriving. And with that, comes more crime.
In many cases, high-end homes in the suburbs are purchased for cash. They are gutted and millions of dollars worth of marijuana plants are grown. It’s untaxed and unregulated. Because the black-market is thriving in Colorado, it’s also easier and cheaper for students to obtain the drug. (Click here to access their latest report.)
Home grows have become the new “gray market” in Colorado because it’s virtually impossible to regulate what people do in their homes.
Marijuana-related calls to the Illinois Poison Control Center have increased since legalization. Do we want more accidental poisonings?
-
- 2019 – 487 calls
- 2020 – 743 calls
- 2021 – 855 calls
HB 4799 is scheduled for a hearing in the Executive Committee on Wednesday, February 16th.
Take ACTION: Click HERE to file a witness slip in opposition to HB 4799.
-Fill out your name, address, email and phone number. Leave everything else blank or put self.
-Highlight “Opponent” and “Record of Appearance Only.”
-Check Terms of Agreement and click Create Slip.
MORE ACTION: Click HERE to email your state representative to urge him/her to oppose HB 4799.
The true impact of “recreational” marijuana on our communities is just starting to be learned, so why are we rushing ahead to expand this experiment? The negative consequences of legalizing recreational marijuana will be felt for generations.
Thank you!
Your willingness to fill out witness slips are making a huge difference!
