Town hall in Des Plaines to discuss legalizing recreational marijuana

State Sen. Laura Murphy will host a town hall from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, in Des Plaines to discuss the pros and cons of potential cannabis legalization in Illinois.

"The legalization of cannabis is a very complicated topic," Murphy, a Democrat from Des Plaines, said in an announcement of the event. "Many states have already gone through the process of legalization and are seeing various benefits, but many states are opposed to legalization and cite a multitude of downsides. I'm willing to hear from both those who support and those who oppose legalization of cannabis so that I can make an informed decision if such legislation ever comes before the Senate."

Murphy will be joined at the forum by the sponsors of legislation that would legalize recreational marijuana, Sen. Heather Steans of Chicago and state Rep. Kelly Cassidy of Chicago.

the event will take place in the theater of the Prairie Lakes Community Center, 515 E. Thacker St., Des Plaines. People with all viewpoints are encouraged to attend. More information can be found on Murphy's website, www.SenatorLauraMurphy.com.