ILHAA

Letter in Opposition to HB4293 Dear Illinois General Assembly,    We, the undersigned members of the Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association (ILHAA) along with hemp businesses and consumers, urge you to reject HB4293, a bill which would destroy the hemp industry in Illinois and devastate local farms, small businesses, and consumers in Illinois for the following reasons: Criminalizes currently legal hemp products Conflicts with federal hemp production guidelines Lacks subject matter expert input from the hemp industry  We ask that you respect the will of the people who cultivate, process, and use hemp in Illinois. Please preserve more than 6 years of regulatory stability and economic growth by voting NAY on HB4293 during the lame duck session! Work with us to create legislation that includes age gating and standardized testing and labeling requirements. Let’s keep children and consumers safe while allowing Illinois businesses to survive.  While we agree with the Senators and the Governor about the need for reasonable regulation of the hemp industry, we are concerned that the technical flaws in HB4293 would cause Illinois to lose jobs and tax revenue by destroying businesses.  Consumers and their pets would lose access to CBD and hemp products they rely on for health and wellness.  Regulation is essential for the hemp industry, but HB4293 was introduced without meaningful input from the stakeholders who it directly impacts. The first opportunity for external review and comment on the bill’s language was May 22nd, during peak planting season for farmers. Just days later, the bill passed the Senate on May 26th. Despite this rushed timeline, 773 witness slips were filed in opposition, compared to just 32 in support, reflecting the overwhelming concerns of Illinois hemp consumers, producers, and businesses. Thoughtful collaboration with industry stakeholders is vital to crafting balanced and effective legislation. We ask you to stop HB4293 and give us an opportunity to help craft hemp industry regulation that protects both consumers and Illinois’ economy.  Sincerely,  Justin Ward - ILHAA President Craig Katz, J.D. -ILHAA  Secretary  Dipesh Sharma - ILHAA Treasurer Jennifer Weiss, Ph.D.  - ILHAA Board  Nick Warrender - ILHAA Board John Murray - ILHAA Board

House Bill 4293, aimed at tightening regulations on intoxicating hemp products in Illinois, failed to pass in the state legislature, marking a pivotal moment for hemp policy and public health. Despite its intent to safeguard children, the bill faced strong opposition from small businesses, industry advocates, and divided lawmakers, ultimately exposing cracks in Illinois’ approach to regulation. Fueled by grassroots advocacy, its defeat highlights the power of collective action and raises critical questions about the future of hemp regulation. Discover how this battle unfolded and what’s next for Illinois residents and businesses.

Illinois’ THC Regulation Bill remains stalled, leaving businesses, consumers, and policy makers in uncertainty. The delay impacts THC labeling, product safety, and industry growth, while opening opportunities for hemp operators and advocacy groups to shape fair policies. Collaboration and transparency are essential as Illinois navigates this pivotal moment in its evolving cannabis landscape.

HB4293 threatens to dismantle Illinois’ hemp industry, criminalizing federally legal products and destroying small businesses. The bill risks banning full-spectrum hemp, fueling a black market, and perpetuating inequitable drug policies that harm marginalized communities. This legislation undermines consumer safety, economic growth, and years of progress. Now is the time to take a stand—protect Illinois hemp, safeguard innovation, and ensure fairness by opposing HB4293. Together, we can fight for a future of opportunity, not criminalization.

Hemp is transforming lives, agriculture, and economies, offering a pathway to healthier lifestyles and sustainable growth. The Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association is at the forefront of this movement, uniting farmers, businesses, and consumers to advocate for the hemp industry. By becoming a member, you gain access to vital resources, valuable networking opportunities, and a platform to influence policies. Together, we can shape a thriving, eco-conscious future for Illinois.

The hemp industry in Illinois stands at a crucial crossroads. Despite its immense potential as a sustainable crop that benefits both the economy and environment, hemp faces outdated legal barriers and a lack of public awareness. This blog explores the pressing challenges threatening the industry and outlines actionable steps you can take to make a difference—sign petitions, join grassroots campaigns, and volunteer with the Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association (ILHAA). Together, we can fight for legislative reform, economic growth, environmental sustainability, and inclusive opportunities, shaping a brighter, greener future for Illinois. Don’t wait—get involved today!

The Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association (ILHAA) is on the frontlines of a critical fight to protect Illinois’ local hemp industry. With corporate cannabis gaining ground, small hemp businesses and farmers face mounting challenges that threaten their survival. ILHAA’s mission is clear: to support local hemp stores, empower farmers, and preserve free market competition. By advocating for fair legislation, providing resources, and fostering community action, ILHAA is proving that a sustainable and inclusive future for hemp is possible. But the fight isn’t over—and they need your support. Together, we can stand up for small businesses, local farmers, and the values that keep Illinois’ hemp industry vibrant and diverse.