On November 12, Illinois plans to pull low-dose, hemp-derived THC-infused beverages from licensed retailers, a month before federal restrictions are scheduled to take effect on Dec. 11. By reclassifying these beverages as cannabis and capping THC at 0.4 milligrams per container, Illinois is taking a harsher stance than Washington and putting its own communities at risk.
Across Illinois, shelves are being emptied as shoppers scramble to stock up on the beverages before Nov. 12, signaling strength of demand. Total Wine & More is among 1,000 locations throughout the state that sells low-dose hemp-derived THC beverages, including Target, Circle K, Binny's, United Center and Navy Pier. The total retail value of these sales exceeds $50 million annually. Approximately 70% of Illinois breweries either make or would like to make these products, according to the Brewer's Guild.
Low-dose THC beverages are not high-potency products, and Total Wine and More strongly believes that Illinois should not treat them as if they were. They are lightly dosed, lab-tested drinks purchased by responsible adults.
History has demonstrated how prohibition does not end demand of previously legal adult products. The ban on alcohol sales during the 1920s put criminals in control of the alcohol market, where the likes of unregulated "bathtub gin" and other unsafe illicit products became readily accessible. Prohibition of low-dose THC beverages in Illinois, part of a $289 million and fast-growing U.S. market, would do the same.
"America already has a solution," said Ryan Ross, CEO of Total Wine & More. "For nearly 100 years, the three-tier system used for alcoholic beverages has enabled safe sales of beer, wine and spirits. It's time to apply that same framework to low-dose THC beverages"
Adults of every background and generation, including many in Illinois, buy low-dose THC-infused beverages. "Our customers buying these beverages are veterans, seniors, soccer moms and busy parents. They are responsible adults who deserve trusted access to these products," said Ross.
Total Wine & More wants Illinois and Congress to require age-gated sales, product testing, potency limits, and the exclusive use of U.S.-grown hemp and naturally occurring Delta-9 THC. Regulation protects communities. Prohibition does not.
