Chicago small businesses urge Mayor Johnson to veto hemp ban
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Hemp-derived THC products behind the counter at Chi'Tiva in the South Loop. Photo: Justin Kaufmann/Axios
Local small businesses are rallying to convince Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson to veto the City Council's ban on the sale of intoxicating hemp products.
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.
- The ordinance was sponsored by Ald. Marty Quinn (13th), who argued that the products were unsafe, unregulated and in some cases, marketed to children.
Driving the news: Johnson has signaled he may veto the ordinance before Wednesday's council meeting.
Friction point: Chicago hemp businesses say the ordinance is poorly conceived and will not only force businesses to close, but also put extra strain on consumers who use these products for pain relief, not for getting high.
- "If this ordinance is not vetoed, businesses like mine face fresh choices," Kizmah CBD owner Ruby Mirza said. "Either we shut down, fundamentally change who we are, or leave Chicago entirely."
What they're saying: "This ordinance says that in Chicago, you can get high, but you can't get healthy," Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association (ILHAA) spokesperson Kitty Kurth said at a Thursday rally at Chi'Tiva in the South Loop.
- The ILHAA said Chicago could lose around $31 million a year in tax revenue if the hemp ban is enacted.
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.
- Local hemp businesses are hoping the city backs off this ban and instead waits for Congress to set regulatory guidelines.
What we're watching: If the mayor vetoes the measure, Quinn would need two more votes on the council to override.