The Cole Memo

As Illinois braces for snow, Cole and Phil dive into a jam-packed episode covering recent cannabis legislation, regulatory updates, and the ongoing debate over hemp-derived THC. They break down new proposals, including a bill to expand home cultivation limits and efforts to introduce cannabis delivery in the state. The conversation also explores the Chicago City Hall hemp hearing, where business owners, lawmakers, and advocates clashed over the future of intoxicating hemp products.

With candid analysis and sharp commentary, Cole and Phil dissect the inconsistencies in cannabis policy, the pushback from licensed operators, and the broader implications for consumer access and economic equity. Plus, a deep dive into the testimony of industry experts—including a fiery appearance from Tyrone Muhammad—and the questions that left some officials struggling to grasp the nuances of hemp law.

• Watch the episode on Youtube here
• Stream the episode on Soundcloud here
• Stream the episode on Spotify here
• Stream the episode on Apple Podcast here
• Stream the episode on X here

Links mentioned during show

• Illinois Lawmaker Introduces Bill to Expand Home Cultivation Limits and Medical Cannabis Caregivers
• Illinois Lawmakers Propose Bills to Allow Cannabis Delivery and Expand Access for Medical Patients
• Illinois Bill Proposes Expanded Expungement for Cannabis Offenses  
• Trump’s New DEA Leader Has A ‘Just Say No’ Stance On Marijuana, Linking Cannabis Use To Suicide Risk And Schizophrenia – Marijuana Moment
• The winners and losers of a 25% aluminum tariff hitting the THC drinks industry
• Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminum could raise these prices
• Governor Pritzker “Donald Trump is making you pay more for beer so he can give tax breaks to the wealthy.” 
• Governor Pritzker “Meeting folks right at the table, Illinois.” 
• CBAI joined a group of social equity cannabis license holders and @aldermangilbertvillegas at City Hall to urge members of the Chicago City Council to reject attempts to legitimize intoxicating hemp. 
• Behind-the-scenes staff acrimony mirrors public tension between Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. JB Pritzker 
• Chicago City Hall Full Video – https://vimeo.com/showcase/8928494/video/1051272907