Illinois Senate Bill Banning Hemp-Derived THC Products and Cafes Stalls Out
The Illinois Senate debated banning hemp-derived THC products and cafes, but ultimately, they declined to act. The House lets the bill stall. We should be appalled.
Unregulated Products
The hemp-derived THC products in question are currently unregulated. It was argued that banning them could have had negative consequences for cannabis shops and the growing THC seltzer business, which uses THC from hemp. Not banning them is having negative consequences on children!
Legal Loophole
Hemp-derived THC is legal due to a loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill. While both hemp and marijuana contain the active ingredient THC, hemp has significantly less THC than marijuana.
Legislative Process
The Senate passed a bill that would have restricted these hemp products. However, Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch did not call the bill for a vote during the spring session in the House. Lawmakers and cannabis industry representatives have expressed concerns about unregulated THC products, including synthetic marijuana variants like Delta-8 and Delta-9. These products can be more potent than advertised, posing risks to consumers.
Industry Impact
The bill wouldn’t have only affected synthetic weed producers but also craft brewers. Many Chicago companies have contributed to the growth of the THC drink industry nationwide. Craft brewers pushed back against the ban, emphasizing the need for a more socially equitable and fair regulatory approach.
Future Legislation
While Illinois didn’t pass this specific bill, Congress is working on a new farm bill that might include an amendment banning hemp-derived THC products. The amendment was introduced by Illinois Representative Mary Miller12.
The decision not to ban synthetic THC products in Illinois reflects a complex interplay of economic, regulatory, and health considerations. Unfortunately, money seems to always be the bottom line. The debate continues, and future legislation may address these concerns more comprehensively. Keep checking back for more details as additional information becomes available.
