Author: Cole Preston
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Illinois Law Allows Medical Cannabis Patients to Purchase Cannabis Seeds. One Question About Their Availability Remains Unanswered.
I discussed this article on my podcast. You can view the episode here. Illinois law has allowed qualifying medical cannabis patients to cultivate up to five cannabis plants since the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (CRTA) took effect in 2020. The CRTA also authorizes registered qualifying patients to purchase cannabis seeds from licensed dispensaries for…
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Episode 296 – Federal Cannabis Rescheduling Hearings Begin: Key Takeaways from Days 1 & 2
The federal cannabis rescheduling hearings are underway, and this episode breaks down the biggest developments from the first two days. We cover testimony from DEA and FDA officials, arguments over the government’s shift from a five-part to a two-part medical use test, and reactions from opponents of the proposed move to Schedule III. We also…
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Episode 295 – Inside the Ascend Strike: Cannabis Workers Speak Out
Cole sits down with striking workers and representatives from Teamsters Local 916 to discuss the ongoing labor dispute at Ascend Wellness’ cultivation facility in Barry, Illinois. They explain why more than 300 workers walked off the job, outline their concerns over wages, health care, overtime, workplace safety, and contract negotiations, and respond directly to portions…
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Episode 294 – Federal Cannabis Developments & Illinois Cannabis Law Updates
Illinois cannabis laws continue to evolve, and this week we’re breaking down some of the latest developments. We discuss the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s new informational bulletin on Senate Bill 3222, including expanded craft grow canopy limits, new labeling requirements for medical cannabis, transporter updates, and other regulatory changes. We also take a look at…
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Episode 293 – Federal Cannabis Developments & What We Learned in Chicago
Fresh off the IgniteIt Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago, Cole shares reactions from cannabis operators, industry stakeholders, and policymakers following the passage of Illinois’ landmark cannabis omnibus legislation. Hear what business owners, advocates, and legal professionals are saying about expanded possession limits, medical cannabis access, hemp regulation, and the many unanswered questions that remain as…
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Episode 292 – Governor Pritzker Signs Illinois Cannabis Omnibus Into Law
Governor JB Pritzker has signed Illinois’ cannabis omnibus legislation into law, marking one of the most significant updates to the state’s cannabis regulations since adult-use sales began in 2020. In this episode, we break down the new law, including expanded possession limits, free medical cannabis licenses for adult-use dispensaries, drive-thru and curbside sales, telehealth certifications,…
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Illinois Has More Cannabis Brands Than Ever. Fewer Companies Own Them.
Six years in, incumbent cannabis corporations still take in nearly 79 cents of every dollar in statewide revenue. Illinois dispensary shelves hold more cannabis brands than at any point since legalization: 264 by the end of 2025. A new report finds that those brands answer to a shrinking set of owners, and that 17 companies…
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Illinois Gov. Pritzker Signs Major Cannabis and Hemp Reform Package
Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed a sweeping cannabis and hemp omnibus bill into law, enacting one of the most significant updates to Illinois cannabis regulations since adult-use legalization took effect in 2020. The legislation passed the Illinois House 77-31 and the Senate 47-10 during the final days of the spring legislative session. Legislative records show…
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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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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…
The Cole Memo 