Chicago – February 14, 2026
Mayor Brandon Johnson has vetoed an ordinance passed by aldermen earlier this year outlawing unlicensed businesses in Chicago from selling most hemp products.
That means unless aldermen can override it, sales of CBD and hemp-derived THC products will continue and stakeholders will have to return to the negotiating table to try to hammer out a new deal.
The ordinance outlawed unlicensed businesses from selling all but a handful of hemp products starting April 1. It passed in a 32-16 vote in January despite concerns from critics that it would hurt small businesses — producers and convenience stores alike — and foster a black market for products. It would take 34 votes to override Johnson.
“I want to be clear: I share the concerns raised about intoxicating hemp products, especially when it comes to packaging that may appeal to children or sales practices that lack proper safeguards. We must have strict age verification, responsible labeling, and clear enforcement standards,” his letter said. “There must be zero tolerance for businesses that market or sell these products to minors.”
Ald. Marty Quinn, 13th, led the charge for the ban and said his priority was to keep children “protected and safe” from the products, which are sometimes packaged to look like popular candy.
