The post was originally published 12/9/24 on the Local Food Forum Feed.
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“Strong, resilient local food communities are essential to promoting better health, environmental sustainability, rural and urban economic growth, humane treatment of animals, fairness to farmers and farm workers, improved food access to those in need, and food security in times of crisis.”
— Bob Benenson, Founder and Editor in Chief, Local Food Forum
Find the original post at: https://www.localfoodforum.com/post/cultivating-change-empowering-illinois-through-hemp-reform
We are excited to provide this follow-up to Local Food Forum’s previous post covering our gathering at The Plant Chicago where we gathered to network and discuss a new hemp reform bill, HB5903.
This grassroots 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.
Since the introduction of the bill by House Food, AG, and Conservation Committee Head, Representative Sonya Harper, IHGA members - including many who have earned the title of IL Hemp Industry Leaders - have been busy reaching out to their reps in the House and Senate 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, including a spring 2024 campaign where more than 50 stakeholders showed up in person and nearly 800 witness slips were signed opposing anti-competitive marijuana industry backed legislation 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. This was a great opportunity to share updated hemp community priorities and ensure 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 IL Hemp Community to gear up for the first Lobby Day of 2025 on January 7th.
What’s on the table?
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: Reflects federal (Farm Bill) standards Economic Opportunity: Empowers urban farmers, local businesses, local food,
ag innovation, bio-based manufacturing, and consumer choice.
Sustainability Goals: Utilizing hemp to advance state goals for improved food systems, nutrient loss reduction strategies, 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 with what's happening in the hemp space, check out our blogs here.
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become part of the IL Hemp Community sign up for just $25/yr or pledge monthly support starting at $5/month here for access to exclusive content.
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