Gov. Pat Quinn told the City Club of Chicago he is “open minded” about a bill that would legalize the medical use of marijuana in Illinois.
Gov. Pat Quinn says he's reviewing a bill that would legalize the medical use of marijuana.
The Chicago Democrat told the City Club of Chicago on Monday he's "open minded" on the issue but wouldn't say if he'll sign it into law.
The Illinois Senate approved the bill Friday. Lt Gov Sheila Simon says she supports it.
The measure would allow Illinois patients who already have a relationship with a doctor to be prescribed a limited amount from a state-run dispensary. The legislation provides a list of more than 30 serious illnesses that marijuana can be prescribed for.
Advocates say marijuana offers pain relief without the side effects of prescription medications.
Opponents fear it could open the door to increased drug use.
