A bill soon to be sent to Gov. J.B. Pritzker makes changes to the licensing policies for cannabis growers and how the product is transported in an effort supporters say is meant to bring equity to the industry.
Adult cannabis sales have been legal in Illinois since 2020. Even with limited license holders for the production, transportation, and sale, the state's industry has generated billions of dollars in sales and hundreds of millions in tax revenue for the state.
During the fall veto session, advocates and lawmakers discussed an amendment to a measure to make it easier for small growers and address a lack of licenses for transporters.
State Rep. Norine Hammond, R-Macomb, said the amendment does three things, including cutting application fees. "Between January of 2024 and January of 2027, there will be no fees required for the application for transporters," Hammond said. The bill received little pushback from lawmakers and has the support of cannabis groups.
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