The Cole Memo

In this episode of The Cole Memo, we take a closer look at where Illinois cannabis tax revenue is actually going and whether it’s living up to the promises made at legalization. From general revenue funds to reinvestment programs, we break down what’s known, what’s unclear, and why transparency still matters. We also highlight an op-ed from State Representative Sonia Harper, who argues that while the industry is thriving, the equity goals behind legalization remain unfinished.

We also examine new data showing Illinois now leads the nation in cannabis arrests among legalization states, raising serious questions about ongoing enforcement and whether legalization has truly reduced harm. Plus, updates on a lawsuit involving alleged patient data exposure, a local dispensary raid, and reflections on cannabis culture from the Silk Road era to today.

• 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

• ColeMemo.com/UIUC 
• Where does Illinois cannabis tax revenue go? – https://youtu.be/ORMnhyukPCo?si=aaefcRBbi9aegKZI
  • https://cannabis.illinois.gov/research-and-data/learn-how-cannabis-tax-dollars-are-spent.html 
• Illinois awards $32M to cannabis companies, but some are still struggling to open
• Lawsuit accuses Verano of exposing protected patient data on receipts
• Chicago weed culture six years on from legalization – WBEZ Chicago
  • Very interesting phone calls come in
• Rep. Sonya M. Harper: Illinois promised cannabis equity. The work isn’t finished. 
• The State of Enforcement: Progress and Shortcomings in Cannabis Arrest Rates 
• Trickle Down Healing – An Open Letter to the Psychedelic Community on Bicycle Day
  • Episode 220 – Choosing Both: Advocacy, Burnout, and Balance with Jean Lacy  
• Police respond to reported unlicensed dispensary at Champaign storefront – Chambana Today