Mayor Johnson vetoes Chicago's hemp ban
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Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson speaks at a news conference in October. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images
Mayor Brandon Johnson vetoed the hemp ban ordinance — a win for small businesses.
What they're saying: "I continue to have significant concerns around the current proposal and the potential negative impacts this prohibition-style ban could have on our city," Johnson said in a letter Friday afternoon.
The big picture: Last month, the council voted 32-16 for an ordinance to ban intoxicating hemp products from being sold anywhere except regular cannabis dispensaries, effectively outlawing the sale of hemp-derived THC and CBD gummies, creams, oils and other products.
- Hemp-derived THC drinks were exempted and can still be sold at liquor stores.
State of play: Ald. Marty Quinn (13th), who sponsored the ordinance, has argued that the products are unsafe, unregulated and in some cases, marketed to children.
- Quinn would need 34 votes to override the mayor's decision, and he says he doesn't have that support.
- "This veto really defies logic," Quinn tells Axios. "He's placing a preference of small businesses over the safety of our kids."
Quinn says this ordinance was the hardest he's had to work for votes in this entire term. "I have 32 votes. You need 34, and I'm a realist."
Friction point: Chicago hemp businesses argued the ordinance would have forced businesses to close and put extra strain on consumers who use these products for pain relief, not for getting high.
What they're saying: "I share the concerns raised about intoxicating hemp products, especially when it comes to packaging that may appeal to children or sales practices that lack proper safeguards," Johnson wrote.
- "We can protect young people, ensure safe packaging and responsible sales, and provide clear enforcement mechanisms without dismantling small businesses which make up the fabric of our neighborhoods."
Zoom out: This issue is playing out at the federal level as well. Congress has until November to find a regulatory path for hemp products, or they will be banned outright.
- "As we await additional guidance and rules from the federal government, this ban is premature and requires further collaboration with our small business community," Johnson added.