WATCH: Pritzker threatens executive action regulating hemp if legislature won’t act

By Greg Bishop | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) − After previous attempts were unsuccessful, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he may take executive action to address hemp regulations in the state if the legislature won’t act.

Pritzker said he’s advocated for new state laws to restrict the distribution of hemp infused drinks, gummies or candies. After an unrelated event Tuesday, he said they have to get a handle on it for public safety as children are getting their hands on such products.

“I am pushing that,” Pritzker said. “If the legislature and if the advocates for the hemp industry are unwilling to do it, then we will take executive action because this should not be the case.”

Last year, things came to a boil over the issue of regulating hemp products with legislation failing to advance. Pritzker expressed frustration that nothing is being done to change state law.

“They’ve got to understand, people are getting sick,” Pritzker said. “Children are getting sick. Children are able to get a hold of this in a way that they shouldn’t.”

Pritzker said there’s a framework of regulation for the adult-use cannabis industry.

“We should have a regulated environment for hemp,” he said.

Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association Board President Justin Ward said they agree with the governor on preventing potentially dangerous products from ending up in the hands of minors.

“We absolutely believe there needs to be age limits in products and there needs to be product testing as well,” Ward told The Center Square. “This is why we are actively pushing legislation to regulate the sale of hemp products in Illinois. We must preserve the rights of consumers to access the healthy alternatives they need while at the same protecting kids.”

Ward said they look forward to working with the Pritzker administration “to enact the kind of responsible regulations that will make Illinois a leader in product safety.”