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Illinois Hemp Growers Association Presses for Public Policy Changes
The following content is contributed by Rachel Berry, hemp farmer and executive director of Illinois Hemp Growers Association (IHGA). The article discusses the association's efforts at the state Capitol to impress state lawmakers of the need for reform in order to unleash the economic potential of the nascent hemp industry in Illinois.
[Note : Illinois Hemp Growers Association is a premier sponsor of Local Food Forum]
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We are excited to provide this followup to Local Food Forum’s previous post covering our November 8 gathering at The Plant in Chicago, where we gathered to network and discuss a new hemp reform bill, HB5903.
This grass-roots legislation sets out to empower urban farmers, support small businesses, protect public safety, and position Illinois as a national leader in hemp while tackling some of the biggest hurdles facing Illinois’ industry.
The bill was introduced by state Rep. Sonya Harper, chair of the House Food, Agriculture and Conservation Committee, in early November. Since then, IHGA members — including many who have earned the title of Illinois Hemp Industry Leader — have been busy reaching out to their representatives and state senators to gain support; sharing insights with other stakeholders; and spreading the word at community events.
These efforts build on a strong track record of boots-on-the-ground advocacy. This includes a spring 2024 campaign in which more than 50 stakeholders showed up in person and nearly 800 witness slips were signed opposing anti-competitive legislation, backed by the marijuana industry, that would have devastated the hemp businesses — a testament to the strength of this growing and mighty movement.
To keep the momentum going and to ensure education is consistent in the state house, the IHGA set out to Springfield again during the fall Veto Session, held November 12 through 14 and November 19 through 21. This was a great opportunity to share updated hemp community priorities and ensure that lawmakers head into the new year fully aware of our vision.
We gained valuable insight on what’s to come in 2025 during this visit, and are now rallying for the Illinois hemp community to gear up for the first Lobby Day of 2025 on January 7.
WHAT'S ON THE TABLE
Here are the key priorities that IHGA and the hemp community are pursuing.
Equitable Access: Removal of the Illinois property tax code requirement for hemp production licenses, extending access to millions of people who were previously ineligible for the program
Regulatory Clarity: Amends the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act to allow hemp as an ingredient.
Public safety: Establishing minimum guidelines for hemp product safety testing and packaging, including a 21+ age restriction for hemp products containing cannabinoids.
Federal Alignment: The proposed bill reflects federal (Farm Bill) standards.
Economic Opportunity: Empowers urban farmers, local businesses, local food, agricultural innovation, bio-based manufacturing, and consumer choice.
Sustainability Goals: Utilizing hemp to advance state goals for improved food systems, nutrient loss reduction strategies to protect water quality, renewable energy programs, clean jobs, safe and affordable housing, and more.
If you value IHGA’s work keeping the hemp community informed and advocating for fair, accessible regulations, please consider pledging your support. Every dollar helps us expand our efforts, whether it’s providing education, organizing campaigns and events, or taking your concerns to the Capitol.
Learn more about how to participate in our upcoming Hemp Lobby Day here.
To stay up to date on what's happening in hemp, check out our blog here.
For exclusive interviews and conversations sign up on our Patreon.
To become part of the IL Hemp Community, sign up for just $25/year or pledge monthly support starting at $5/month here.
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