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ILHAA Action Alert Chicago Hemp Ban

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Action Alert: City Council Hemp Ban Puts Chicago Hemp at Risk

by Kevin Kimmell on Jan 22 2026
Chicago City Council just passed an ordinance that would ban all hemp products unless sold through marijuana dispensaries, threatening to destroy this entire market. Mayor Brandon Johnson has until February 17th, 2026 to veto the ban, or it takes effect April 1. Sign the Veto and support now!
Hemp Growing Presidents on President’s Day

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Hemp Growing Presidents on President’s Day

by Nicholas Warrender on Feb 18 2025
ILHAA, celebrates Presidents' Day with a salute to our early Presidents who were hemp farmers and understood the diverse and promising uses for hemp crops.
Simple Policy Recommendations for Responsible Hemp Regulation in Chicago

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Simple Policy Recommendations for Responsible Hemp Regulation in Chicago

by Nicholas Warrender on Feb 17 2025
Mandatory minimum age of 21 to purchase or 18+ for non-active-duty veterans Full panel testing of finished products from independent, credentialed laboratories to ensure appropriate purity and potency. Standardized labeling that accurately reflects the contents of packaged products, matches testing, and prohibits look-alike packaging that mimics popular snacks and candy brands.
Letter in Opposition to HB4293

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Letter in Opposition to HB4293

by ILHAA Admin on Jan 21 2025
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
The Failure of HB 4293: What It Means for Illinois Residents

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The Failure of HB 4293: What It Means for Illinois Residents

by Ela E on Jan 10 2025
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.
The Stalled THC Regulation Bill: Impact on Illinois’ Cannabis Landscape

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The Stalled THC Regulation Bill: Impact on Illinois’ Cannabis Landscape

by Ela E on Jan 09 2025
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.
Save Illinois Hemp: Why We Must Stop HB4293 Now

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Save Illinois Hemp: Why We Must Stop HB4293 Now

by Ela E on Jan 01 2025
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.
Why Joining the Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association Matters

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Why Joining the Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association Matters

by Ela E on Jan 01 2025
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.
Join the Movement: Saving Hemp in Illinois

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Join the Movement: Saving Hemp in Illinois

by Ela E on Jan 01 2025
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!
Empowering Local Hemp: ILHAA's Mission and Your Role

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Empowering Local Hemp: ILHAA's Mission and Your Role

by Ela E on Jan 01 2025
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.