While scrolling through LinkedIn I saw a post about some recent changes in Illinois and wanted to share this with you all. Illinois released its updated cannabis rule package, keeping several regulatory changes in motion while removing the section that would have introduced a processor license, something that is much needed. The following breakdown explains what remains in place, what is changing, and what has been pulled from the package.
Infusers remain limited in scope
Infusers will continue operating under the same narrow set of permissions as before. They may create infused products using approved inputs but will not receive any new handling or extraction rights.
- Activities still allowed:
- Using hemp-derived CBD, CBG, CBN, and THCV isolates under updated guideline
- Producing beverages
- Producing edibles
- Using cannabis concentrate supplied directly by a grower
- Producing tinctures
- Producing topicals
- Activities still prohibited:
- Producing concentrates
- Processing or handling raw flower
- Grinding flower
- Packaging or repackaging flower
- Performing THC extraction
- Producing pre-rolls or infused pre-rolls
Craft growers and cultivation centers keep exclusive flower privileges
The rule package preserves all existing authority for craft growers and cultivation centers. They continue to be the only license types permitted to handle flower from cultivation through packaging.
- These license types may:
- Cultivate and cure cannabis
- Grind cannabis
- Produce pre-rolls and infused pre-rolls
- Load cones
- Package flower products
- Extract concentrates, for cultivation centers
Transporters receive clarified operating standards
Transporters will follow new, clearer rules designed to standardize operations. These updates clarify logistics but do not expand the ability to modify product.
- New transporter requirements:
- Guidelines for required hold times
- Standards for transfer sites
- Updated security expectations
- Rules for switching drivers mid-route
- Restrictions unchanged:
- Transporters still may not alter, process, or modify cannabis products
Fee reductions remain in place
The fee relief originally included in the proposal is still moving forward, even with the removal of processor rules.
- Confirmed reductions:
- Principal officer fee reduced from $1,000 to $100
- Registration fee reduced from $100 to $25
- Two-year pause on renewal fees for infusers and craft growers
- Lower modification and alteration fees
Hemp-derived isolate input rules are still included
Illinois is keeping its updated policy on hemp-derived isolates for licensed facilities.
- Requirements:
- Must contain under 0.3 percent THC
- Must be hemp-derived isolate
- Must be tested before use
- No conversion into intoxicating cannabinoids such as Delta-8
- Must receive department approval before entering a facility
- No more than 50 grams allowed on site
Items removed from the rule package
With Section 1300.490 removed, all components related to a proposed processor license have been pulled from this rulemaking cycle.
- The removed items include:
- Creation of a processor license
- New manufactured product permissions
- Rules for processor staffing or equipment
- New extraction authority for infusers
- Any expansion of flower-handling rights
At some point, Illinois regulators need to come together and finally create a processor license that actually supports the people this industry was supposed to uplift. Social equity infusers shouldn’t be stuck buying oil from large producers just to survive. Without the ability to extract their own material, they’re locked into high prices, limited options, and a system that keeps them dependent instead of letting them grow on their own terms. A real processor license would give these operators control over their product, open the door for real competition, and help level a playing field that has never truly been fair. If Illinois is serious about equity, this is the step that needs to happen.
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