Responsible Hemp Regulation For a Safer, More Prosperous Illinois

We urge Illinois lawmakers to wisely regulate

– NOT ban –

Illinois’ hemp industry

Unlocking the Wellness Potential of Hemp in Illinois

Every day, more and more Illinoisans discover the potential wellness benefits of products derived from hemp. Legal under federal law, hemp is a versatile product that provides numerous potential wellness benefits while supporting thousands of local jobs.

Illinois’ thriving hemp industry is committed to providing safe, high-quality products for consumers, ranging from wellness items to pet care solutions. Our industry stands behind responsible regulations that protect consumers, ensure quality, and build trust.

However, Illinois lawmakers are considering changes that could jeopardize the future of the state’s vibrant hemp industry. Harsh policies and overly broad language in legislation like HB 4293 would ban many natural components of the hemp plant that so many people find beneficial. This would make it impossible for small businesses to manufacture and sell legal hemp-derived products such as CBD and pet supplements, denying consumers the products they depend on for well-being.

Outlawing federally legal hemp-derived products is not the answer.

We urge Illinois lawmakers to wisely and responsibly
regulate — not ban — our industry.

Who Are We?

The Illinois Business Hemp Association (IHBA) is a leading voice for the hundreds of independent and minority-owned hemp-derived cannabinoid businesses across Illinois that believe in and support fair regulations to promote consumer safety and the growth of this emerging industry.

Let’s work together to:

Enforce appropriate testing on all final products

Illinoisans deserve to trust that the hemp products they buy are safe and effective. While many hemp businesses test their products thoroughly, Illinois should enforce industrywide standards to keep consumers safe from the few bad actors who undermine our industry's commitment to keep safety and quality at the forefront of all we do. It’s time for Illinois to enforce industrywide regulations that guarantee that every product on the shelf meets the highest safety standards, so people can shop with confidence and peace of mind.

Require customers to be at least 21

Like alcoholic beverages and cannabis products, it’s time for a 21-and-up age requirement on adult-use hemp products. This lawful commodity is intended for responsible adult use.

Reinvest in our communities

Illinois’ lawful hemp products aren’t currently taxed statewide, but it’s time to change that. The state should introduce a fair product tax to generate revenue directly enriching the communities served by the hemp businesses. Imagine the benefits: Tax dollars from therapeutic hemp products could be reinvested to create resources, opportunities, and programs for communities, especially those most affected by the war on drugs.

Mandate strict product labeling

Labels shouldn’t just be flashy or clever – they need to give consumers the facts. Every hemp product should clearly display its type, quantity, and potency, so people know exactly what they’re getting. Let’s push for strict labeling standards that protect consumers and keep these products out of the hands of kids by putting a stop to packaging that mimics popular snacks and candies.

Create equitable retail opportunities

There is room for both a thriving cannabis industry and a lawful, sustainable hemp industry. The hemp industry offers an affordable and accessible path for innovators to create quality products that many people turn to for their potential wellness benefits. Cannabis and hemp each have their own unique benefits – let’s preserve the right for consumers to choose the products that best meet their needs.

With smart, responsible regulations, Illinois’ hemp industry can flourish — keeping consumers safe, empowering small businesses, and paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Voices of Support

Illinois State Representative La Shawn K. Ford
The Representative of the 8th District discusses the importance of responsible regulations.

Todd Harris
Co-founder & CEO of Plift, a THC beverage company

James Thomas
Manager at The Joint Shop in Homer Glen

Dipesh Sharma
Operates a Chicago-based hemp product distribution facility

Responsible Hemp Regulation For a Safer, More Prosperous Illinois

We urge Illinois lawmakers to wisely regulate

– NOT ban –

Illinois’ hemp industry

Unlocking the Wellness Potential of Hemp in Illinois

Who Are We?

Let’s work together to:

Enforce appropriate testing on all final products

Require customers to be at least 21

Reinvest in our communities

Mandate strict product labeling

Create equitable retail opportunities

Voices of Support

Recent News

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Guest Essay: Regulate Fairly – Don’t Punish Hemp For Being Legal

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