SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (KFVS) – Illinois is tightening rules on intoxicating hemp products such as Delta-8 and THC-P, banning sales to anyone under 21 and moving those products under the state’s cannabis regulatory framework starting in November 2026.

Gov. JB Pritzker marked the change at an event at Sway Dispensary after signing Senate Bill 3222 last month. Supporters of the law say hemp-derived THC products have been sold outside the regulated adult-use cannabis market, sometimes in packaging that appeals to children or with labeling that does not clearly describe what’s inside.

“As a pediatrician, I’ve seen how quickly substance use and accidental poisonings can become a medical emergency,” said Dr. Mark Butterly, chief medical officer at Advocate Children’s Hospital. “Intoxicating hemp products can pose serious risks to children and teens, which is why these safeguards are so important.”

The law prohibits sales of intoxicating hemp products to people under 21. Beginning in November 2026, those products will be regulated under the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, including requirements for child-resistant packaging and restrictions on misleading marketing aimed at children, state officials said.

The legislation also includes changes to Illinois’ medical cannabis program and broader industry oversight, including allowing dispensaries to register as medical cannabis dispensaries, expanding curbside and drive-thru pickup, and allowing some qualifying conditions to be certified via telehealth. It also adds provisions supporters say are aimed at social equity, including income-based hardship waivers, more time for some businesses to become operational and reduced costs.