Should Illinois Legalize Marijuana for Recreational Use?

Here’s what Chicago lawmakers don’t want you to know. In 2013, they legalized “medical” marijuana, ignoring the warnings and concerns from medical groups. In 2016, they decriminalized it to a mere $100 fine, plus records for possession are expunged every July 1st and January 1st

Colorado legalized marijuana in 2013.

What ’s happened there is tragic:

Youth (12-17) now rank #1 in the nation for “past month use” and 55% higher than the national average

A 66% increase in pot-related deaths

A 72% increase in pot-related hospitalizations; a 147% increase in Poison Center calls

A 268% increase in marijuana-related exposures for children ages 0-5

In Denver County, there are more pot stores than Starbucks, McDonald’s and Walmart’s combined by double

Nearing bankruptcy, lawmakers are looking for a new source of tax revenue to cover their years of reckless spending. But at what cost? Colorado’s revenue is a mere 0.8% of their budget. The negative consequences to families can’t be measured.