Illinois New Hemp Regulations Delayed After Industry Members Voice Concerns
Illinois hemp growers and advocates have pressed pause on a set of proposed state regulations they say threaten the survival of small and minority-owned businesses in the industry.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) and a legislative committee announced a 45-day delay in finalizing the rules, which were initially set for approval on November 12, reported Illinois Capitol News.
The regulations, which have been in the works for over two years, aim to align Illinois’ hemp program with federal standards under the 2018 Farm Bill.
However, recent changes to the draft, including unannounced inspections, stricter licensing restrictions and the possibility of criminal penalties, have drawn sharp criticism from industry stakeholders.
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