A bill aimed at regulating the hemp industry in Illinois, specifically targeting delta-8 THC products, failed to pass in the state legislature. House Bill 4293, rejected this week, sought to prohibit packaging that mimics marijuana and restrict marketing strategies appealing to minors.
The measure is among many legislative and regulatory initiatives in several states, with recent actions also coming in Missouri, Hawaii and Ohio.
Gov. JB Pritzker supported the Illinois bill, hoping for its passage during the recent lame-duck session. However, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson opposed the measure, expressing concerns about its impact on the city’s ability to address related issues. Pritzker noted that the mayor did not reach out to discuss potential compromises.
Pritzker has been vocal about the need for stricter regulations on hemp-derived intoxicants, citing their accessibility to minors and lack of oversight. He emphasized that the products often have potent effects, are untested, and are readily available to young people.
“We support the hemp industry. This is not an effort to bash the hemp industry. We want it to thrive and continue evolving,” the governor had said in the runup to the legislative vote.
Other states acting
In Missouri, lawmakers are considering regulations on intoxicating hemp products. Proposed legislation aims to set definitions for such products and establish penalties for violations. The bill defines an “intoxicating hemp product” based on specific THC content thresholds and seeks to criminalize their sale, especially to minors. Penalties could include substantial fines and misdemeanor or felony charges for repeat offenders.
Hawaii has introduced new state rules that hemp growers argue could jeopardize their businesses. The regulations impose stringent testing and labeling requirements, which growers say are costly and burdensome. They fear these measures may drive them out of the market, despite the state’s intention to ensure product safety and consumer protection.
Ohio is also addressing the issue of intoxicating hemp products. Three proposed bills aim to regulate the market, with measures including banning products containing certain levels of THC, setting age restrictions, and enforcing penalties for non-compliance. Governor Mike DeWine has expressed support for such regulations, emphasizing the need to protect consumers and maintain public safety.
National conversation
The ongoing debates in Illinois, Missouri, Hawaii, and Ohio reflect a broader national conversation about balancing the growth of the hemp industry with public health and safety concerns. As states grapple with the implications of unregulated hemp-derived intoxicants, legislative efforts continue to evolve in response to this complex issue.
The rise of synthetic cannabinoids such as delta-8 THC, HHC, THC-P, and THC-O has led to a proliferation of products that are often marketed in packaging resembling popular snacks and candies, raising concerns about their appeal to children. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration considers intoxicating hemp products to be federally illegal. In response, several states have implemented regulations or outright bans to control their distribution.