An Illinois panel advanced a proposal that would decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana.
People caught with 10 grams or less of cannabis would pay a maximum fine of 200 dollars.
Brandon Nemec is with the Cook County State's Attorney's Office. He says it’s a more efficient use of law enforcement officers.
"We think a much more fair and just punishment and a streamlined punishment is a citation. It's going to send a message to the individuals who are caught smoking marijuana in public, who are caught with just mere possession of marijuana,” Nemec said.
The proposal passed out of committee, and now heads to the full Senate. It would also set a standard for impaired driving.
A similar plan nearly became law last year, but Governor Rauner wanted tighter restrictions.
