CHICAGO - Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford joined Governor JB Pritzker and a number of stakeholders to push for the House passage of her measure that would regulate Delta-8, a synthetic hemp-derived THC intoxicant.

"The current unregulated market undermines social equity license holders who have long worked to establish a legal, well-regulated business," said Lightford (D-Maywood). "Effective regulation is about safeguarding public health and fostering a sustainable, trustworthy market".

Lightford's legislation - which passed the Senate in May and awaits approval from the House - is focused on regulating hemp products. Specifically, it would prohibit packaging designed to imitate candy or popular foods and marketing designed to appeal to children. The measure would enforce safe packaging for intoxicating hemp products and imposes taxation. Additionally, the products would only be permitted to be sold at licenses dispensaries for individuals 21 and over.

Non-intoxicating CBD products would be allowed outside of a dispensary with certain quality standards in place.

Many products contain amounts of THC that far exceed what is permissible for adult use cannabis products. Additionally, minors have been effected significantly, as companies are using marketing tactics that are geared toward children. Nationwide, over 9,000 cases of Delta-8 poisoning have been reported since 2021, 41% of which involved children.

"It is vital we move toward regulation of hemp and delta-8 products - and do so in a way that is equitable and provides opportunities within the evolving industry," said Lightford.
For more information on House Bill 4293, click here.