Illinois Black Hemp Association Defends Black Farmers and Businesses Against Restrictive Legislation

At a Jan. 16 press conference held at the Naomi & Sylvester Smith Senior Living Center on Chicago’s South Side, members of the Illinois Black Hemp Association gathered to voice their concerns over recently proposed legislation that threatens the very foundation of the hemp industry in Illinois.& With the American Dream hanging in the balance, advocates highlighted the potential repercussions of House Bill 4293. The bill seeks to impose restrictive regulations on hemp extraction and processing. The 2018 Farm Bill was meant to usher in a new era of opportunity for small farmers and entrepreneurs in Illinois. However, thanks to the efforts of the IBHA and supporters, the proposed legislation has now been dismantled, signaling a regression.& “These changes would have effectively criminalized all hemp extraction in Illinois, devastating our small businesses and family farms,” stated a representative from the association. Among those present were veterans and community members who have experienced the life-changing benefits of hemp products.& A 77-year-old brain cancer survivor shared her story, emphasizing how daily use of hemp products has allowed her to live without a cane or walker while also enjoying her passion for Chicago stepping.& “Hemp has done great things for me,” she declared,...