"There are a number of experiments going on in other states right now. And the data is mixed. There is more income to the states thanks to taxes on the product, but there are also negative societal impacts.

The top question for me is whether it is good for our communities. The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association and the Illinois Association for Chiefs of Police are both opposed. They have looked at Colorado who legalized recreational marijuana in 2013 and found:

• Marijuana-related traffic deaths have increased 66 percent

• Marijuana-related hospitalizations have increased 72 percent

• Property crime has increased 8.3 percent

• Violent crime has increased 18.6 percent

As long as law enforcement believes that it will be a scourge on our communities, I will remain opposed."  (Northwest Herald candidate interview, 10/11/18)

Email: dan@senatormcconchie.com

Web: https://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=103&MemberID=3098

Phone: 217-782-8010