Some Illinois lawmakers have introduced a resolution asking the state to slow down its efforts to legalize recreational marijuana. The resolution has 37 co-sponsors – including State Representative Tom Bennett of Gibson City.
The resolution asks that lawmakers ‘’not rush irresponsible legislation purely for tax revenue, but…consider the health and safety of Illinoisans as their first priority when considering the question of legalization.’’
Some reasons cited for asking Illinois lawmakers to slow down on recreational marijuana include increased access and use among youth, the effect of marijuana on youth brain development, increased drugged driving, increased homelessness and mental health concerns, and a lack of data about the detrimental effects of legalization of marijuana.