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Start Here: The Cole Memo
This page brings together a sample of my best work — from expert interviews to deep dives into cannabis history, culture, and policy. You’ll also find documentaries, archives, and special projects here. Whether you’re a longtime follower or a first-time visitor, this page is designed to help you dive in at your own pace. Explore…
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Illinois Cannabis and Hemp Omnibus Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk
A sweeping cannabis and hemp omnibus bill is now headed to Governor J.B. Pritzker after receiving final approval from the Illinois General Assembly. The legislation passed the Illinois House by a vote of 77-31 and later cleared the Senate 47-10. The lengthy measure includes a wide range of changes to Illinois cannabis law. Among the…
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State Reports Show Cannabis Arrests Continue Six Years After Legalization in Illinois
Cannabis Control Act arrests increased in Illinois in 2024, marking the first year-over-year increase since cannabis possession was decriminalized in 2016, according to newly released state data. A separate analysis released by the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) found Illinois had the highest cannabis arrest rate per capita among states that have legalized adult-use cannabis. Together,…
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Episode 291 – Trulieve’s NYSE Milestone, Upcoming Illinois Reporting, and Live Grow Cam Launch
On this impromptu live episode of The Cole Memo, Cole discusses reports that Trulieve is set to become the first U.S. cannabis company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, what that development could mean for the industry, and why other major operators appear to be preparing for similar moves. Cole also shares updates on…
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Episode 290 – Dose of Reality: What Illinois’ New Cannabis Rules Would Change
Illinois lawmakers have finally passed a long-discussed cannabis omnibus bill, but what does it actually mean for consumers, home growers, hemp operators, and the broader cannabis industry? Cole is joined by longtime friend Phil for a candid conversation about possession limit increases, medical access expansion, hemp restrictions, social equity transporters, security requirements, and why many…
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Episode 289 – Illinois Cannabis Omnibus Heads to the Governor’s Desk
In Episode 289 of The Cole Memo, Cole recaps a major week in Illinois cannabis policy as the omnibus cannabis and hemp legislation officially heads to Governor J.B. Pritzker’s desk. He highlights key developments from recent coverage, reflects on conversations with advocates and lawmakers, and shares where listeners can find deeper analysis of the legislation.…
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Episode 288 – Illinois cannabis bill heads to Governor’s desk for signage
Cole is joined by Peter Contos in this live to tape broadcast of The Cole Memo. Links mentioned during show
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Episode 287 – Illinois Lawmakers Approve Cannabis Reform Package
Illinois lawmakers have approved a wide-ranging cannabis, hemp, and regulatory omnibus bill, sending one of the most significant cannabis policy packages in years to Governor J.B. Pritzker’s desk. In this episode, Cole breaks down the major provisions, including proposed increases to possession limits, drive-thru and curbside dispensary pickup, expanded medical access, telehealth certifications, fee relief…
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Episode 286 – Illinois Cannabis Omnibus Passes the House: What Happens Next?
Cole Preston goes live from Springfield with a Sunday morning update as the Illinois legislative session enters its final stretch. He breaks down the latest developments surrounding Senate Bill 3229, including new amendment language tied to federal hemp law, ongoing negotiations between lawmakers, and reporting from Capital News Illinois on the state’s cannabis and hemp…
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Episode 285 – Illinois Cannabis Omnibus Nears Finish Line as Lawmakers Race the Clock
Cole Preston goes live from Springfield with a Sunday morning update as the Illinois legislative session enters its final stretch. He breaks down the latest developments surrounding Senate Bill 3229, including new amendment language tied to federal hemp law, ongoing negotiations between lawmakers, and reporting from Capital News Illinois on the state’s cannabis and hemp…
The Cole Memo
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