By Andi Anderson
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker approved a bill exempting existing cannabis transporters from annual licensing fees for three years, commencing January 1, 2024. Senate Bill 1559 also imposes a moratorium on new license applications for cannabis transporters until January 2027.
Pritzker emphasized the legislation's role in fostering an equitable cannabis system that addresses past prohibitions' injustices. The moratorium intends to support smaller independent transporters to secure contracts and expand their operations, easing financial burdens with a fee waiver.
Moreover, the law mandates the Illinois Department of Agriculture to revise the licensing application process based on a disparity study by the Illinois Cannabis Regulation Oversight Office (CROO). This study aims to evaluate discrimination within the state's cannabis industry since its launch in 2020, examining disparities in licensing and accessibility of minority- and women-owned businesses.
Following this study, the Agriculture Department gains authority to alter the licensing application process to mitigate discrimination. Additionally, starting in 2027, cannabis business applications will be available yearly from January 7 to March 15.
Governor Pritzker underlined the necessity of equitable reinvestment in communities affected by the war on drugs, emphasizing the bill as a crucial step in supporting small cannabis enterprises to achieve equitable growth.
Photo Credit: istock-stefonlinton
Categories: Illinois, Crops