Illinois Gov. Signs Bill Doubling Adult-Use Limits and Banning Underage Hemp Sales

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D) on Friday signed the state’s hemp and cannabis omnibus legislation that doubles the state’s adult-use possession limits and establishes new rules for hemp product sales, CBS Chicago reports.

Lawmakers approved the legislation, SB 3222, earlier this month.

The proposals merge intoxicating hemp product sales into the state’s adult-use cannabis regime, but include provisions to help current hemp retailers transition into the more tightly regulated cannabis space. Additionally, the law creates a smaller, regulated market for companies that offer non-intoxicating products, like CBD oils or topicals.

In addition to doubling the adult-use possession limits, other cannabis policy changes include legalizing dispensary drive-throughs and curbside pickup. The proposals also change the state’s automatic expungement eligibility from possession of up to 30 grams of cannabis to up to 60 grams, matching the new legal limits, and expand the canopy capacity for craft cannabis growers.

“This landmark legislation closes the intoxicating hemp loophole while bolstering equity and oversight and expanding medical access. Illinois is committed to cultivating a cannabis industry that benefits diverse businesses across the state and prioritizes accessibility, and I am proud to sign this measure into law.” — Pritzker, in a statement