In a press release, ISP Director Leo P. Schmitz said, “ISP officers will continue to enforce the law, while being mindful of the penalty changes for smaller amounts of cannabis. The public is reminded that cannabis possession without a medical marijuana card is still illegal; the penalty and fines have changed. In addition, drivers under the influence of cannabis will still be arrested and prosecuted.”
State Police procedure has changed, as well. Officers won't fingerprint, photograph, or take those with small amounts of marijuana to jail, but drugs and paraphernalia will be seized and placed into evidence. Following the defendant's court appearances, the seized items will be destroyed, and the charge against the defendant will be expunged on or before the following July 1st or January 1st.
State Police also made it clear that local ordinances regarding fines for the possession of cannabis and related drug paraphernalia are not impacted by the change in state law.
All of the changes made by SB2228 can be found at: http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=2228&GAID=13&GA=99&DocTypeID=SB&LegID=93232&SessionID=88
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