Police oppose marijuana legalization in Illinois, but want a bigger cut of the proceeds if law passes

By Robert McCoppin
Chicago Tribune

MAY 8, 2019, 8:05 PM

Law enforcement officials came out Wednesday against legalizing marijuana in Illinois — but if cannabis is allowed, the police want a bigger cut of the proceeds for what they fear will be increased safety risks.

Police raised their objections in response to a bill announced Saturday by Gov. J.B. Pritzker to legalize commercial sales of marijuana by licensed businesses, along with personal possession of about one ounce of marijuana flower, starting next year.

The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association and the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police took part in negotiations over the bill, but said their concerns were largely ignored.

The primary concern police have is over an anticipated increase in motorists driving while high. They cited studies in states that legalized marijuana, showing significant increases in the number of traffic accidents in which participants tested positive for cannabis. Police also said that the proposed law does not provide sufficient safeguards to discourage impaired driving.

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