Governor J.B. Pritzker wants to create a host of new taxes to help balance Illinois’ budget – on everything from e-cigarettes to medical insurance companies. NPR Illinois reporters have been breaking down those revenue-generating ideas. Today we're looking at a potential tax on recreational marijuana.

Illinois has been mulling over the idea of legalizing recreational cannabis for years. A state-sponsored study suggests that supporters' may have over-estimated the amount of tax revenue that could be gained by legalization.

Senator Scott Bennett and Representative Carol Ammons will host a town hall on marijuana legalization on Feb. 18, 2019. The event begins at 6 p.m. at the Illinois Terminal in Champaign.

With growing support among politicians and the public, Illinois could likely legalize recreational marijuana as soon as next year. But, passing legislation may hinge on where the revenue will go. 

Come January 14, Illinois will have a new pro-pot-legalization governor and a Democrat-held legislature, leading many to believe the state will legalize recreational cannabis. That’s exciting for some, concerning  for others.