Roundtable Roundup: Illinois Avoids a Hemp Ban, New Campaign Launched in Iowa

We won the battle in Illinois – but the war is far from over.

During the legislature’s lame duck session last week, HB 4293, an effort to ban most hemp products (discussed here) was defeated. Prohibition failed despite Governor J.B. Pritzker making it a high priority, characterizing it as a public health priority but mistaking how far the bill actually goes.

Huge thanks go out to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, who opposed the bill, and whose fight with the Governor is covering Chicagoland news.

The hard work of local hemp farmers and businesses and the grassroots efforts Hemp Supporters should also be applauded—they sent nearly 2,000 emails to legislators opposing HB 4293.

The bill is dead for now, but we’re keeping a close eye in case the bill is refiled or the Governor takes executive action.

Email Campaign Launched in Iowa

In Iowa, rumors are flying that some organizations are working with legislators to ban all consumable hemp products, with only a possible exception for THC beverages.

This would result in the closure of every CBD store in the state and make even worse last year’s law setting THC limits of 4mg/serving and 10mg/container.

The legislative session starts next week, so please consider taking immediate action—use our State Action Center to contact your legislators and share your personal stories about CBD and other consumable hemp products.