The State of Illinois legalized the use of hemp-derived CBD for both recreational and medical purposes. Meanwhile, marijuana-derived CBD can be legally used by qualified patients for medical purposes. This includes patients who have a medical marijuana prescription from a licensed and authorized doctor. To apply for a marijuana card, these patients must qualify with the approved list of medical conditions first before they can access CBD.
The State of Illinois is one of the most progressive states that implement medical marijuana programs. In 2013, the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act or HB1 was approved with an initial list of 35 qualifying medical illnesses. This bill has significantly impacted the medical industry particularly the patients who are suffering from certain health issues. This allows Illinois residents to have easier access to CBD to help them manage their medical conditions better.
In 2014, SB 2636 was passed which allowed children who are under 18 years old to be treated with medical marijuana as long as their health condition also qualifies under the law. At the same time, the parents or guardians must sign it off first while signatures from at least two doctors are also required according to a post from CBD Education Online. Qualified patients are allowed to use up to 70 g. of cannabis for 14 days.
CBD oil derived from hemp as well as hemp CBD products are legal in Illinois under the federal law. In 2018, CBD products that contain less than 0.1% THC are approved for purchase and can be transported across the state as long as it is approved by the FDA.
In general, CBD oils that contain less than 0.3% THC are allowed in the state. Also, Illinois allows its residents to possess small amounts of marijuana. However, this amount is yet to be quantified.
When it comes to CBD for sale in Illinois, consumers can find a variety of CBD products in retail stores all over the state. While Chicago is considered as the main hub for CBD products, consumers can also purchase CBD in most cities across the state. The city of Chicago continues to be at the forefront, especially when it comes to buying high-quality CBD at a reasonable price.
However, buyers should also be aware that not all stores sell the same quality of CBD products. Hence, they should check the store and manufacturer first before buying a product. Meanwhile, residents who are more private can opt to purchase CBD products online. With the vast number of online sellers, a lot of consumers find it more convenient and easier to buy their supply online.
Currently, Illinois residents who are 21 years old and above are legally allowed to possess up to 30 g. of cannabis. They are also permitted to possess up to 500 mg. of THC from cannabis products as well as 5 g. of cannabis concentrate. Meanwhile, individuals who are non-residents can possess a maximum of 15 g. of cannabis.
According to an article from CBD Origin, the state of Illinois legalized cannabis in 2018 making it the 11 th state to legalize marijuana for recreational use in the US. The bill was supported by the governor of Illinois, J.B. Pritzker, where it was passed in the state House of Representatives garnering 66 votes. With the governor’s full support, the bill is set to be implemented in the state of Illinois starting on January 1, 2020.
Around 47 states in the US implement and follow certain cannabis laws particularly the use of medical and recreational cannabis. Governor Pritzker also announced that he has plans to pardon Utah residents who have past convictions of cannabis possession that fall under the lower level.
The state government gave licenses to over 20 dispensaries in Illinois that permits them to sell medical marijuana. The majority of the dispensaries are located in Chicago while other cities that have licensed dispensaries include Ottawa, North Aurora, Evanston, Schaumburg, and Addison. The state conducts regular inspections of these stores.
When it comes to buying CBD oils in Illinois, there are several varieties sold in the retail stores. One common type of CBD oil available in the market is the Afghani CBD which contains high strains of CBD that creates a therapeutic effect to fight stress, insomnia, and chronic pain. Another popular variety is the 3D CBD which was highly promoted by entertainer and rapper Snoop Dogg. This variation is ideal for individuals who often suffer from muscle tension and inflammation.
The Chicago Tribune reported that a bill was recently introduced that will require all forms of CBD sold across Illinois must meet the testing requirements from the Illinois Department of Agriculture. Most consumers purchase a wide variety of CBD products to help ease their medical conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety or seizure among many others. Some of the products sold in retail shops use third-party testing facilities to assure consumers that their product contains sufficient amounts of CBD even though it is not yet required by the state.
Rep. Bob Morgan emphasized that “This legislation would give the Department of Agriculture the ability to step in to make sure we are selling products that are safe for people to use.” This new rule will address the safety concerns of consumers when using CBD products.
With the changing laws in CBD, the State of Illinois continue to develop new rules and amend existing ones to get closer when it comes to legalizing marijuana-derived CBD-oils outside medical use. Once approved, this will make it easier for residents to buy a variety of CBD products with fewer restrictions.
For now, Illinois residents will have to wait and see if the state will approve CBD products with below 0.3% THC levels. In the meantime, consumers will have to settle for hemp-derived CBD oils and derivatives until a new law is implemented. In addition, the state is developing plans to improve the laws on the cultivation of industrial hemp which can positively impact the agriculture market of Illinois.
Cannabis Alliance is an informational resource for cannabis lovers.
We aim to create consumer awareness about the benefits of cannabis for medical use as well as the use of help CBD for health reasons.