Imagine if a single law could wipe out years of progress in a federally legal industry. That’s the threat facing Illinois’ hemp producers and retailers today.
Hemp isn’t a loophole — it’s a lifeline for small businesses and communities. Policies must support innovation and safety, not criminalization. The people turning to hemp are people looking for a healthy alternative to pain management and a life free of the fear of addiction.
We must protect kids, but we also must protect the people who have come to depend on these healthy alternatives.
There certainly are bad actors in this industry, which is why the Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association (ILHAA) is stepping up to propose a balanced and responsible approach to regulation that prioritizes consumer safety, especially for our children.
We remain committed to working hand-in-hand with lawmakers to create a framework that safeguards children without stifling the growing hemp industry. Our proposed policy recommendations are designed to ensure responsible practices while promoting consumer confidence in these products.
One of the cornerstones of our proposals is the establishment of a minimum age requirement of 21 for the purchase of hemp-derived products, except for non-active duty veterans aged 18 and older.
This measure is crucial in preventing underage access to these products, ensuring they are available to only responsible adults who understand their use.
In addition to age restrictions, we are advocating comprehensive product testing through independent, credentialed laboratories. This full-panel testing will confirm the purity and potency of hemp products, assuring consumers that what they are purchasing meets rigorous safety standards. In an industry that has seen rapid growth and innovation, it is essential for consumers to trust the products they are using, particularly when it comes to their health and well-being.
Standardized and accurate labeling is another critical recommendation. By requiring all hemp products to include clear, consistent labels that align with testing results, we can prevent confusion and ensure that consumers are fully informed about what they are consuming. Furthermore, prohibiting look-alike packaging that mimics popular snacks and candy brands will help to shield children from inadvertently accessing these products. ILHAA stands out as a distinct voice for balanced hemp reform in Illinois.
Our broad representation across the state — from urban retailers in Chicago to family-run farms in rural areas — allows us to understand the diverse impacts of hemp policy on various communities and businesses. While we acknowledge the importance of safety and regulation, we also believe in preserving consumer access to beneficial hemp products, such as CBD and full-spectrum extracts. Adults should have access to safe, well-labeled alternatives for health support without the threat of prohibition.
ILHAA is dedicated to fostering a hemp industry that thrives alongside the marijuana sector under fair regulations. We stand ready to collaborate with lawmakers to create a regulatory environment that is both sensible and equitable. Ideally, we would like to get an agreement this spring, but if it cannot happen now, we will continue to work with legislators to create a regulatory framework to protect kids and make Illinois a leader in this emerging industry. Together, we can achieve a future where hemp products are safe, accessible, and beneficial for all Illinoisans.
Justin Ward is president of the Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association.
