720 ILCS 550/15

The Department shall encourage research on cannabis. In connection with the research, and in furtherance of the purposes of this Act, it may:

(1) establish methods to assess accurately the effect of cannabis;

(2) make studies and undertake programs of research to:

(i) develop new or improved approaches, techniques, systems, equipment and devices to strengthen the enforcement of this Act;

(ii) determine patterns of use of cannabis and its social effects; and

(iii) improve methods for preventing, predicting, understanding, and dealing with the use of cannabis;

(3) enter into contracts with public agencies, educational institutions, and private organizations or individuals for the purpose of conducting research, demonstrations, or special projects which relate to the use of cannabis.