A bill that would ease rules around transporting cannabis in vehicles is drawing strong opposition from some Illinois lawmakers — especially those with a background in law enforcement.
State Rep. Dennis Tipsword (R-Metamora), a former law enforcement officer with three decades of experience, said Friday that Senate Bill 42 would make it harder for police to do their jobs if it becomes law.
“This legislation is going to tie the hands of law enforcement,” Tipsword said. “It sends the wrong message when we remove tools that help keep our roads and communities safe.”
The bill, which passed out of the House Judiciary – Criminal Committee by a narrow 8-6 vote, would eliminate the requirement that cannabis in a vehicle be stored in an odor-proof container. It would also prevent officers from stopping or searching a vehicle solely based on the smell of cannabis — whether raw or burnt — as long as the driver or passengers are 21 or older.
Supporters of the measure, led by Democratic lawmakers, argue it’s about protecting personal freedom and ensuring cannabis users aren’t unfairly targeted now that marijuana is legal for recreational use in Illinois.
But Tipsword isn’t buying it.
“As someone who’s worked in public safety for years, I can tell you — smell matters. It’s often one of the only clues officers have that something illegal or dangerous may be going on,” he said.
Though the bill advanced, it still faces more hurdles. Lawmakers say it will return to committee for an amendment before going to the full House for a vote.
Until then, opponents like Tipsword plan to keep pushing back.
