Barickman talks gas tax, cannabis

FORREST – State Sen. Jason Barickman acknowledges there are many questions about the state’s new gas tax and where the money is going.

“There is certainly controversy on the tax side of it,” Barickman explained during a stop in Forrest last week. “We do have a lot of infrastructure needs and once you set aside all the controversy of how those can get fixed, I think people do recognize the need that is there.”

Barickman often hears from those who don’t like the tax but still want the roads repaired. Since road and bridge improvements are needed in Illinois, Barickman said a big priority is making sure the governor hears the residents and that dollars are being spent for the needs of Central Illinois.

The Senator also spoke about the legalization of cannabis in Illinois and how many folks are split on the idea.

“There are some who take a very Libertarian approach of I don’t really care what happens as long as it’s not in my back yard. Then you have others who are wildly opposed to it.”

Questions remain about the timing and logistics of how all of this will work. The new law takes effect January 1.