Author Archives: Patrick V. (Midwest Dazed)

Illinois has put a hold on issuing new adult-use marijuana store licenses, a move aimed squarely at empowering social equity entrepreneurs within the burgeoning cannabis industry. This pause, articulated by Democratic State Rep. La Shawn Ford to Crain’s Chicago Business, signals a pivotal moment for the state’s cannabis landscape. Currently, Illinois law sets a ceilingContinue reading “Illinois Hits the Brakes on New Cannabis Licenses, Aims to Boost Social Equity”

Good news is brewing in Illinois for medical cannabis patients, with a comprehensive “omnibus” bill, Senate Bill 2090, recently clearing the House Executive Committee. This legislative package, a compilation of previously stalled cannabis amendments, aims to iron out several kinks in the state’s cannabis program, from bolstering social equity efforts to streamlining operations for cultivatorsContinue reading “Illinois’ Next Cannabis Chapter: Is Universal Medical Access Finally Here?”

It appears the green rush in Illinois might be hitting a snag, at least for some of the folks working on the front lines of the cannabis industry. A growing trend suggests that dispensaries across the state are tightening their belts, and it’s the employees who seem to be bearing the brunt of the squeeze,Continue reading “Are Illinois Dispensaries Feeling the Pinch? A Deeper Look at Staffing Struggles”

It’s been a decade since medical cannabis became legal in Illinois under the compassionate care program. Ten years. And while we’ve certainly seen some positive shifts, the core promise of accessible, affordable medicine for qualifying patients feels increasingly distant. On the bright side, we’ve applauded the expansion of qualifying conditions, opening the door for moreContinue reading “10 Years In – Where’s the Compassion for Illinois Medical Cannabis Patients?”

The cannabis industry, often lauded for its explosive growth potential, is also a harsh mistress, especially for those struggling to navigate its complex financial landscape. The latest casualty to highlight this reality appears to be 4Front Ventures Corp., a multi-state operator (MSO) that just announced its Massachusetts subsidiaries have voluntarily filed for receivership. This move,Continue reading “4Front Ventures: Another MSO Down for the Count in a Tight Cannabis Market”

Big changes are brewing in Wheeling’s cannabis scene as OKAY Cannabis, located at 781 N. Milwaukee Ave., is set to close its doors by the end of May. This move will reduce Wheeling to a dispensary, Hatch, which has been operating in the area for several years. For residents and cannabis enthusiasts in the northwest suburbs, thisContinue reading “Okay Dispensary & Lounge Wheeling: Closing”

Albuquerque, New Mexico, a city increasingly at the forefront of innovative social policy, has just launched a groundbreaking pilot program that’s turning heads across the nation. This month, 80 families in Albuquerque began receiving $750 per month with no strings attached, part of a guaranteed basic income initiative funded, in a significant way, by cannabisContinue reading “Albuquerque Blazes a Trail: Cannabis Taxes Fund Basic Income, A Blueprint for Illinois?”

Springfield, IL – Legislation aimed at preventing law enforcement in Illinois from stopping or searching vehicles solely based on the smell of cannabis has moved forward in the state House of Representatives. Senate Bill 42, which previously passed the Senate, cleared an initial House committee vote but its House sponsor indicated that more work is neededContinue reading “Illinois Bill to Limit Odor as Basis for Vehicle Searches Advances, House Sponsor Seeks Further Discussions”

Hey everyone, let’s dive into something important happening with Illinois cannabis laws. There’s two bills, House Bill 3061 & House Bill 3513, in the 104th General Assembly, that’s looking to create rules for places where you can legally consume cannabis, like temporary events and hospitality venues. While having these spaces is a great idea, Couch Lock’d hasContinue reading “Why HB3061 & HB3513 is a “Pay-to-Play” Hurdle for Consumption Events”

It’s a familiar sting for those of us navigating the digital landscape of the cannabis industry. Just this past Saturday night, my Midwest Dazed page vanished into the ether, another casualty of what feels like Meta and Instagram’s heavy-handed enforcement of rules. This blow comes hot on the heels of losing our main Couch Lock’dContinue reading “Another One Bites the Dust: Meta’s Shadow Looms Over Cannabis Education”

You know that feeling, right? The one where you’re finally ready to unwind, settle into the couch, and spend the next twenty minutes scrolling through endless dispensary menus online? It’s like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, you’re searching for that specific strain, that perfect edible, or that trusted brand. The frustration is real,Continue reading “Say Goodbye to Menu Madness: Find Your Favorites with High Spy”

Illinois’ promise of a thriving, equitable legal cannabis market is facing significant headwinds, according to a group of business owners who are publicly calling for substantial reforms to state laws. Citing “steep licensing fees” and “overly burdensome” regulations, these operators argue that the current framework is hindering the success of the very individuals it wasContinue reading “Illinois Social Equity Cannabis Operators Sound Alarm Over “Burdensome” Regulations and Fees”