In this episode of The Cole Memo, Cole breaks down a whirlwind of news from the local to the federal level. He starts with a look at Texas, where Governor Abbott is calling a special session that could lead to new restrictions on hemp—but without banning it outright. Then, Cole dives into the newly signed HALT Act, clearing up confusion about fentanyl scheduling and questioning the long-term consequences of doubling down on prohibition.
Back in Illinois, Cole highlights a detailed report on how intoxicating hemp remains unregulated despite multiple legislative attempts, with deep divisions even within the hemp industry. He explains how 50mg THC sodas can legally be sold outside dispensaries, discusses competing hemp bills, and revisits his interview with Rep. La Shawn Ford. To close, Cole spotlights where Illinois cannabis tax dollars are actually going—down to the dollar.
- 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
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott calls for special session
- To learn about the latest in Texas Cannabis Policy, my last episode with Texas Cannabis Collective can be viewed here
- HALT Fentanyl Act
- Click here to read the full text of the HALT act
- Intoxicating hemp remains unregulated in Illinois following legislative inaction
- Where does Illinois’ cannabis tax revenue go?
- #303 – Representative La Shawn K. Ford
The Cole Memo 
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