On January 12, 2011 LaShawn Ford (8th Legislative District State Representative) introduced House Bill 100. Mr. Ford’s bill amends the Cannabis Control Act, which currently outlaws the possession of cannabis. The proposed amendment provides that possession of less than one ounce of cannabis is a petty offense punishable by fine only. A first offense provides for a $500 fine, $750 for a second offense and $1,000 for a third or subsequent offense.

Currently, under the Cannabis Control Act possession of less than 2.5 grams of a substance containing cannabis is a class C misdemeanor- a criminal offense punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of $1,500. Possession of 2.5 to 10 grams is a class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of $1,500. Possession of 10 to 30 grams is a class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $2,500 fine. Possessing over 30 grams is a felony punishable by a period of incarceration in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Illinois residents are encouraged to contact their State Representative to weigh in on whether to support HB 100. You can find your State Representative HERE.

In the meantime, if you or someone you know is arrested for possessing cannabis, call the experienced trial attorneys at Harter & Schottland, P.C. to defend you in court.

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