Aug. 1, 2013 – Illinois Becomes 20th State to Legalize Medical Marijuana

Illinois becomes the 20th state to legalize medical marijuana when Governor Pat Quinn signs House Bill 1 into law on Aug. 1, 2013.

The Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act establishes a patient registry program, protects registered qualifying patients and registered designated caregivers from “arrest, prosecution, or denial of any right or privilege,” and allows for the registration of cultivation centers and dispensing organizations. Once the act goes into effect, “a tax is imposed upon the privilege of cultivating medical cannabis at a rate of 7% of the sales price per ounce.”