Chicago City Council Bans Intoxicating Hemp Products, Except Beverages

The Chicago City Council last week passed a ban on the sale of intoxicating
hemp products but left a carve-out for THC-infused beverages, so long as
they are sold in establishments with a liquor license, Block Club Chicago
reports.

The ban, championed by Alderman Marty Quinn, whose ward was the first in
the city to ban intoxicating hemp, is set to take effect on April 1.

The ordinance, however, sets up a potential showdown with Mayor Brandon
Johnson, who could issue a veto in the interest of protecting small
businesses.

“I’m going to have conversations with a number of members of the City
Council. We don’t want to exclude small businesses from participating in
the economy.” — Johnson, via Block Club Chicago

In addition to the infused beverages carve-out for licensed liquor
retailers, the ban would allow hemp-derived THC “additives” for beverages,
commonly sold in bars and restaurants. The ordinance also includes
protections for hemp-derived topical creams.

The rules also set new, stricter packaging restrictions and prohibit
hemp-infused beverages from being marketed in a way that could appeal to
children.

Meanwhile, a federal spending bill approved late last year is set to ban
the sale of hemp-derived cannabinoids nationwide this November.