The Cole Memo

Conversations for Change

Illinois Bill Proposes Expanded Expungement for Cannabis Offenses

A newly introduced bill in the Illinois House seeks to expand eligibility for expungement of cannabis-related offenses.

House Bill 1055 (HB1055), introduced by Rep. Dave Vella on January 9, 2025, proposes changes to the Criminal Identification Act. According to the bill synopsis, it would modify the definition of a “Minor Cannabis Offense” by increasing the possession threshold from 30 grams to 100 grams for expungement eligibility. The bill would still exclude cases involving violent crimes or penalty enhancements under the Cannabis Control Act.

If passed, the bill could broaden access to expungement for individuals with past cannabis convictions, further aligning Illinois’ record-clearing policies with its broader cannabis reform efforts.

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#278 – Homegrow, Schedule III, and the Future of Cannabis with Madeline Scanlon – The Cole Memo

Cole Preston is joined by Madeline Scanlon for a wide-ranging conversation about homegrow culture, cannabis legalization, Schedule III concerns, and the future of cannabis access in Illinois. Maddie shares details about her new Outdoor Grow Club through High Focus Media, designed to help everyday people successfully grow outdoor cannabis with community support, clones, supplies, and education throughout the season. The conversation also explores regulatory capture, hemp bans, medical cannabis, testing standards, cannabis lounges, certified supply models, and why both Maddie and Cole believe growing your own cannabis remains one of the most important forms of access and autonomy for consumers. Plus, they discuss cannabis beverages, hashmaking, outdoor cultivation myths, and the ongoing push to normalize the plant in Illinois and beyond. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/05/14/e278/
  1. #278 – Homegrow, Schedule III, and the Future of Cannabis with Madeline Scanlon
  2. #277 – Schedule III, Homegrow, and Interstate Cannabis? Breaking Down the Questions
  3. Announcement and Quick Illinois Cannabis News Report
  4. #275 – Illinois Cannabis News
  5. #274 – Illinois Policy Stalls, Data Privacy Concerns, and the Hemp Drink Boom

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Cole Preston

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