Four Catalyst Students Testify In Opposition of Legalizing Cannabis in Chicago

Four Catalyst Students Testify at Hearing with Lawmakers

Democratic State Sen. Heather Steans of Chicago proposed legislation that would legalize the possession of up to 28 grams of marijuana and allow facilities to sell marijuana products.

On Monday, January 22, 2018, four Catalyst students testified at a hearing with lawmakers about the proposed legalization of marijuana in Illinois. Stevenson Catalyst members included Seniors Devin Smith and Ananya Pati, freshman Alexander Zhou and sophomore Vrushali Thakkar. The students argued against legalization, citing evidence showing the negative effects of marijuana on the developing teen brain. They were joined by fellow Catalyst members and current Twin Groves eighth-graders Lexi Gitler and Eden Mondschain.

The group also met with state Sen. Dan McConchie, who represents the 26th District, which includes parts of District 125, including Vernon Hills, Long Grove, Lake Zurich and a portion of Buffalo Grove.

On Tuesday, several Catalyst members will travel to Springfield and participate in a press conference led by the Illinois Coalition Against Tobacco. The group will announce legislation to raise the minimum age of tobacco sales from 18 to 21, and will recognize the 10th anniversary of Illinois’ smoke-free air law. Senior Borler Wu is scheduled to speak on behalf of state youth at the press conference.