After former Illinois Governor Pat Quinn left office with a dangling question mark over the Medical Cannabis Pilot Program, medical patients across Illinois were left to wonder what would become over the already-delayed program. Lucky day! Newly appointed Governor Bruce Rauner announced that the administration would be issuing licenses for growers and dispensaries, taking action that allows the program to move forward and become one step closer to implementation.
Governor Rauner issued 18 medical cannabis farming licenses and 52 licenses for medical dispensaries – see the full list available here. There are several applicants still under review and the number of licenses issued may continue to grow.
Quinn had reviewed the numerous applications and had made a list of recommendations as to which businesses should be the recipients, but left office before awarding a single license. This is reportedly due to an incomplete review process – Quinn had reviewed the applicants but felt that the matter deserved more attention, and left the decision to the next administration.
One way or another, Governor Rauner gets to start his term with a bang and show his citizens that he is a man of action and of compassion.
Now – the million dollar question: When will the dispensaries be open for business?We’ve got our fingers crossed for late 2015.
