CHICAGO — Existing growers of Illinois’ medical marijuana crop would be able to meet demand for recreational cannabis in Illinois for up to four years after legalization, but the state would need more than 400 new dispensaries to handle distribution, according to a study released this week from a group that represents about two dozen state licensed marijuana growers and sellers.
The study contradicts a report released last month that suggested existing growers could meet recreational marijuana demand for only about two years. That study was commissioned by lawmakers drafting a bill to legalize recreational marijuana, which is a priority for Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker.
One of the central questions facing lawmakers is how many licenses should be created for growers and sellers of recreational cannabis. There are 17 companies licensed to grow and 55 dispensaries in this state’s medical marijuana pilot program.
