As hemp-derived THC sales flourish in Illinois, state lawmakers are raising concerns about the loophole allowing corner stores to sell modified cannabis products with flavors reminiscent of childhood candies.
Neighborhood stores selling hemp-derived THC in Illinois have fewer regulated roadblocks than certified cannabis dispensaries, an investigation by students at DePaul University's Center for Journalism Integrity & Excellence found.
The pre-rolled joints, vape pens and pre-packaged flower that advertise its components as THCA inevitably transform to THC when heated, bringing about the same psychoactive effects as marijuana, without the quality control, long lines, ID checks or security required at a regulated dispensary.
That doesn't sit well with state Rep. LaShawn Ford, who noted children can walk into a corner store and easily purchase these products. "Especially our young people under 21," Ford said. "We need to make sure that we regulate the age, because anyone can go into one of these small shops that's not licensed and not regulated and purchase."
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