SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (KWQC) – The debate around how to regulate hemp products in Illinois continues with some calling for action and others calling for sensible rules.
Regulations for the hemp industry have been debated at the statehouse since a measure attempted last year failed to advance.
Some efforts are targeting intoxicating products derived from hemp being sold at some convenience stores. Even Governor J.B. Pritzker said he supports cracking down on such products.
Last month on the House floor, Republican state Rep. Martin McLaughlin said he rarely agrees with Pritzker about anything, but regulations are needed.
”The Governor’s right, we have well-established regulatory system for legal cannabis, so why the hesitation here, my friends?” McLaughlin said.
Craig Katz, with the Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association, is advocating for what he said were common-sense regulations to keep hemp products legal, but to tax them.
“We are trying to make sure that the regulations that are passed will both protect children and consumers as well as the members of the industry who have put forth their blood, sweat and tears to establish businesses,” Katz said.
According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, there are two registered industrial hemp processors in Rock Island County.
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Regulations for the hemp industry have been debated at the statehouse since a measure attempted last year failed to advance. Read More
