By Nick Gale, WLS-AM News

(SPRINGFIELD)  There is a renewed push in Springfield to legalize marijuana for recreational purposes and this time lawmakers say it could be a financial windfall for the state.

Lawmakers says the tax revenue generated from the legalization of recreational marijuana could significantly help Illinois’ state budget problems. State Sen. Heather Steans (D-Chicago) is sponsoring the legislation.

“Well the estimates we have gotten range from $350 – $700 million when fully implemented and would come into the state both through an excise tax at the cultivation point and just regular sales tax that you pay on any item,” Steans told Big John and Ray on WLS.

Steans says they do not plan to move forward too fast as they want to ensure there is ample time for organizations and individuals to present testimony and for lawmakers then to tweak the legislation to address any public concerns.

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