Illinois has a medical cannabis program as well as adult-use, otherwise known as “recreational” cannabis. Illinois was the 11th state to legalize cannabis for adult use. All consumers 21 years old and older, regardless of residency, may purchase cannabis from a licensed seller in Illinois. Visitors are restricted to a smaller possession amount.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) oversees The Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Patient Program.
The state website lists the following basic requirements prospective patients must meet in order to apply to the program:
Current Qualifying Conditions
Illinois Department of Health’s current qualifying conditions.
Illinois does allow minors with qualifying conditions to register with the program. Minors must have a designated caregiver(s) and are limited to cannabis-infused products only. “Ashley’s Law” allows caregivers of minor registered patients to administer medical cannabis on school property.
To locate a provider and apply for your medical cannabis card, click here:
In Illinois, only registered medical cannabis patients may grow cannabis at home. The regulations state that the patient must keep their “grow” out of public view in a locked area. There is a limit of 5 plants over 5” tall to be grown at one time. The cultivation of 5 cannabis plants or fewer without a medical marijuana license is a civil violation punishable by a maximum fine of $200, without jail time. However, growing over 5 plants is a felony or at the very least a class 4 violation that is punishable by 1-3 years imprisonment.
Adults may consume or smoke cannabis within their home and on their private property. Property owners, businesses, colleges, and universities have the right to prohibit the use of cannabis as well. Licensed sellers may allow the option of smoking on-premises as would a licensed consumption location.
Cannabis consumption is prohibited in public areas, motor vehicles, near police offices, firefighters, corrections officers, near on-duty school bus drivers, on school grounds, or near anyone under the age of 21.
Limits of possession for Illinois residents ( Adults over 21 )
Limits for out of state visiting Adults over 21 ( Half of that of Illinois residents)
Illinois Medical patients
Short answer is they will be able to shop at certain dispensaries that are licensed for both medical and rec. And they will pay medical prices there.
But if they lose their card, or go to a rec dispensary only, then they will only be able to purchase as a rec consumer, which comes with the additional taxes. Hope that helps!
As of 2023, you can obtain a medical cannabis card in as little as 24 hours.
Click here to get certified for a medical cannabis card, and save up to 40% in taxes!
There was once a time when everyone in Illinois had to wait 90-120 days before being able to make a purchase with their card! Luckily those days are behind us! After you apply and pay successfully, you should be able to use your card printout immediately.
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