Tiffany Chappell Ingram, Executive Director of the Cannabis Business Association of Illinois, released the following statement regarding a proposal put forth by Sixth Ward Ald. William Hall, which would legitimize the sale of dangerous intoxicating hemp-derived products such as Delta-8 in Chicago:
“Unscrupulous sellers have taken advantage of a federal loophole to profit off the sale of intoxicating hemp-derived products, using chemicals to alter the composition of hemp to create a wide-range of products that get consumers high. This is happening outside the structure of the state’s legal cannabis industry, meaning there are no rules or regulations guiding the production or sale of these products – some of which have been found to contain fentanyl. It’s little wonder children and adults are getting sick from these products, which the FDA has warned have not been evaluated for ‘safe use in any context.’
“While we appreciate efforts to rein in this gray market, we are concerned the proposal put forth today by Ald. Hall would legitimize dangerous products in exchange for a quick cash grab by the city. There’s a reason other municipalities across Illinois have banned these products, and Chicago should take heed. Those selling intoxicating products should not be able to draft their own rules to the detriment of consumers and licensed cannabis operators. Failing to put in place stringent regulations on these products would be particularly harmful to social equity cannabis license holders, who face extensive rules and regulations to operate while others continue to get off easy.
“There is a way to do this correctly. We do not have to sacrifice consumer safety for revenue generation. We can live up to the promises made to our communities impacted by the War on Drugs, including social equity cannabis licenses holders. But it requires real regulation and oversight of the hemp industry, not a rubber stamp. We’re glad this conversation is taking place, and look forward to working collaboratively with Ald. Hall, City Council members and stakeholders to find a comprehensive solution.”
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