Illinois Calls for New Driving Rules After Medical Marijuana Law

While agencies are refining regulations for Illinois new medical marijuana law, some want to change the state’s rules that deal with use of the substance while driving.

State code says motorists are prohibited from having any trace of marijuana in their systems. However, the (Peoria) Journal Star reports attorney Rodney Nordstrom and others are trying to change the law to protect drivers’ rights. Legislation has also been introduced.

Illinois legalized medical marijuana this year. Agencies have proposed regulations, which need approval before patients can get access.

The rules say anyone who accepts a medical marijuana registry card agrees not to drive while impaired and must consent to a field sobriety test. If the test is refused, the motorist could lose driving privileges and have the medical marijuana card revoked.