By John Gregory/Illinois Radio Network

CHICAGO – September is the new target for medical marijuana to be available in Illinois, according to a new industry group of cultivators and dispensaries.

Kim Morreale, president of the new Medical Cannabis Alliance of Illinois, says she’s optimistic about hitting that goal. Admitting there’s been “bumps in the road” in rolling out the pilot program, Morreale says the next priority once product is available is to make the program permanent.

“I think the best way to do that is just to show the program works,” Morreale said, “and that we’re really committed to a program with integrity, and one that patients really benefit from, because that’s, at the end of the day, what this is really all about.”

It also means convincing lawmakers and the governor to support extending the program. Morreale says the group has formed “very strong partnerships” with the administration of Gov. Bruce Rauner, who had been opposed to medical marijuana as a candidate.

As for the possibility of legalizing recreational marijuana usage, Morreale says that’s not among the group’s priorities.

“Right now, we’re focused like a laser beam on making sure we have a strong program and that the pilot program is made permanent and that patients have access to medical cannabis,” Morreale said.