Overview
- City Council approved the ordinance in a 32-16 vote, targeting unlicensed sales of intoxicating hemp products across Chicago.
- The measure exempts hemp beverages at bars, restaurants and liquor stores, topicals and pet products, and allows licensed cannabis retailers to sell hemp-infused drinks or additives of up to 10 milligrams to customers 21 and older.
- Sales to minors will be prohibited starting in 10 days, with the broader product restrictions set to take effect on April 1.
- Businesses that violate the ban face fines up to $5,000, and the ordinance includes a rebuttable presumption for items marketed as intoxicating hemp products.
- Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration opposed the plan, a veto remains possible with 34 votes needed to override, and industry leaders warn the crackdown will harm small and minority-owned businesses as federal action on hemp rules is still pending.