Take Action and Help Shape the Future of Illinois’ Hemp Industry
On January 7th, the Illinois Hemp Growers Association, dedicated members, and industry stakeholders will join forces in delivering a clear message to Illinois lawmakers: Grassroots Hemp Reform is the Way Forward!
This effort builds on a strong track record of boots on the ground advocacy, including a spring 2024 campaign where more than 50 stakeholders marched up the steps of the IL State Capitol and nearly 800 witness slips were signed opposing anti-competitive marijuana industry backed legislation that would have devastated Illinois hemp businesses —a testament to the strength of this growing and mighty movement.
Beyond advocating for the language in HB5903, this lobby day will be an opportunity to connect lawmakers with the real stories and pressing needs of the Illinois hemp industry. Hemp growers, processors, retailers, consumers, business owners, and advocates will present the authentic experiences that only our community can share.
As we approach the next legislative session, momentum is on our side—but we need your support to ensure our voices are heard loud and clear in Springfield. Together, we can help legislators understand the vital role of hemp in advancing sustainable agriculture and driving economic innovation.
What Are We Pushing to Secure?
Regulatory Clarity: Support amending the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act to make hemp a recognized ingredient.
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
Public Safety: Push for safer testing guidelines, packaging regulations, and 21+ age restrictions on hemp cannabinoid products.
Federal Alignment: Let’s move toward consistent standards, stepping away from the current patchwork of regulations.
Economic Opportunity: Empowers urban farmers, local businesses, local food, innovation, bio-based manufacturing, and more
Consumer Choice: Ensure local and mail-order access to diverse and affordable hemp products, support small business and Illinois farmers, boost the normalization of cannabis
Sustainability Goals: Advance state goals for sustainable AG, improved food systems, nutrient loss reduction strategies, low-carbon initiatives, renewable energy programs, clean jobs, safe and affordable housing, and more.
Lobby Day Sponsorships
Lunch and general fund sponsors for this lobby day are needed - reach out if you or your business or organization can help make the day a success!
All sponsors will have prominent logo placement on handouts and badges. Recommended donation is $100.
Make Your Voice Heard for Fair Hemp Reform!
Contact Your Representatives: Find your Illinois House and Senate Representatives here and send them a message or call to request a meeting on January 7th. You can use these sample scripts to call or email messages. Need assistance? Let us know—we’re here to help.
Know Your Story: Use our storytelling resources to refine your narrative and share your personal connection to the hemp industry effectively.
RSVP and Join the Prep Call: Attend our prep call on December 30th to ensure we have a unified message. Participation in this call (or a previous IHGA Lobby Day) is required to join us at the Capitol. When you RSVP for the event, you’ll be automatically added to the prep call list on 12/30.
Use IHGA Fact Sheets: Spread awareness and deepen your understanding of the critical issues affecting hemp by utilizing and sharing our fact sheets (below) with your networks.
Catch up on the issues: Check out these discussions on the IHGA Patreon and Blog, and on the Cole Memo Podcast to take a deeper dive into the bill.
Participate in our WHY support grassroots hemp reform campaign, details found on our social media pages (@illinoishga) Find your Reps social media handles and other contact information here.
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