The topic has been brought up again. For the third time in recent years, Illinois is seriously considering legalizing the use of marijuana to prescription patients. This will add Illinois to the 17 other states that already allow this like California, Massachusetts, Colorado and others.

Who would qualify?

The Illinois' legislation is looking to develop a three-year pilot program that would restrict the use of marijuana to several dozen distinct medical conditions such as cancer, HIV, wasting syndrome and multiple sclerosis. The Illinois Department of Public Health could add to that list in the future.

"We have clearly defined diseases that a doctor must certify that you have or you're not getting the permit to be able to buy the product," Lang said.

Here is how it would work: (according to Chicago Tribune)

Under Illinois' current bill, employers would still be able to enforce zero-tolerance drug policies. Patients would have to register with the state Department of Public Health, submitting written certification from their physician, before receiving a registry identification card. Active public safety personnel, such as law enforcement officers, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, and state or county correctional officers would be barred from the program. Designated caregivers and "nonprofit medical cannabis organizations" would also have to register with the state, which would create a database to track participants.


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