Cannabis legalization in Illinois maps the licenses in two rounds, effectively for transporters, stores (called dispensing body), new cultivation facilities, processors and craft growers. The first round would take place in mid-2020, the state would award licenses for up to 40 craft growers, 75 stores and 40 processors. The second round would take place in December 2021, the state could issue licenses for 60 craft growers, 110 stores and 60 processors. None of the individuals or entities are interested in more than three cultivation centers or 10 stores.
The first application window for new dispensaries opens by October 1, 2019 and will close by January 1, 2020. For craft growers, the first application window will likely open in early January 2020.
Under the system, the state of Illinois has decriminalized personal amounts of cannabis, adults could buy and possess up to 30 grams of cannabis “flower,” along with marijuana-infused foods known as edibles, and small amounts of highly concentrated extracts. Non-residents could buy half the amount. Regarding cannabis cultivation at home, up to five cannabis plants would be allowed. The Cannabis legalization law also establishes a system for taxing and regulating marijuana, and consumers would pay up to 34.75% tax on their purchases, depending on potency.