Illinois Bill Would Clear Some Low-Level Marijuana Convictions

SPRINGFIELD, IL — An Illinois Senate member is bringing new life to a bill that would let people ask a circuit court judge to clear low-level marijuana convictions from their record. WQAD said under the bill, a person with a conviction or guilty plea for marijuana from before July 29, 2016 can ask a judge to expunge the record if three or more years have passed since the petitioner completed their sentence. In 2016, Illinois lawmakers decriminalized possession of up to 10 grams of marijuana, making it a civil matter instead of a criminal matter for future cases, according to the news report.

The measure was picked up by Assistant Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, D- Maywood, on Friday in an effort to help non-violent offenders have a clean record, or better chance at getting employed, according to WMAQ.

The news report said the bill will have to pass through the Senate and get to Gov. Bruce Rauner’s desk in January, or the process will have to start over in the General Assembly.

RELATED: Pritzker Hopes To Legalize Marijuana Soon After Being Sworn In

Patch reported Governor-elect J.B. Pritkzer said last month he plans to begin taxing legalized marijuana soon after being sworn in next year and hopes to free those currently in prison for marijuana offenses. Pritzker, who defeated Gov. Bruce Rauner by 15 points, has portrayed the legalization of cannabis as a way to remove an area of racial injustice in the court system, in addition to a source of money for the financially strapped state coffers.

Incoming Lt. Governor Rep. Juliana Stratton is also a sponsor of the recently promoted House bill.

More on this bill: ilga.gov

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