In this episode, I travel to Joliet, Illinois, to sit down with Senator Rachel Ventura. We discuss her groundbreaking legislation that could end vehicle searches based solely on the smell of cannabis, a longstanding issue impacting cannabis consumers across Illinois. Senator Ventura shares the story behind the bill, the challenges with current laws, and how her advocacy intersects with criminal justice reform and environmental policy.
We also dive into her unique journey from math major and pet nurse to public servant, her passion for protecting communities and the planet, and her stance on hemp regulation and psychedelic therapy. This wide-ranging conversation highlights the importance of local action, fair legislation, and putting people and the planet first.
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Links mentioned during show
- Criminal Law Committee in the Illinois Senate Votes to Advance Bill to Ban Vehicle Searches Based on Smell of Cannabis
- Episode 172 – I testified against police
- Illinois Releases 2024 Annual Cannabis Reports
- Illinois Supreme Court Upholds Odor-Proof Cannabis Container Law
- Podcast episode with lawyers where we recap Supreme Court rulings on cannabis container
- Ongoing Cannabis Criminalization in Illinois: Insights from an Elected Official Who Saw It Coming
- Episode 64 – Illinois Representative Carol Ammons
- ColeMemo.com/MiniDoc

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