Illinois Law Forces Hemp THC Drinks Into Dispensaries Next Week

Chicago craft breweries are rushing to sell hemp-derived THC beverages before a state law takes effect on Nov. 12. The new rule requires all such drinks to be sold only in licensed dispensaries. This change removes the products from general retail shelves and gas stations.

Hopewell Brewing Company in Logan Square is selling its THC drinks at a buy-one-get-one discount. Revolution Brewing in Avondale is running similar promotions. Binny’s is marking down nearly every THC beverage in its stores. These moves come as brewers stop making the products, potentially ending the local industry.

The shift follows a state law that treats hemp-derived THC the same as cannabis. This legal change arrives just before a federal ban takes effect in December. The federal rule limits THC concentration to 0.3 percent and 0.4 milligrams per container. Most Chicago-made beverages exceed these limits, making them illegal under federal standards.

Jonathan Fritz, co-founder of Hopewell Brewing Co., said the law will completely eliminate the category. THC drinks made up 20 to 25 percent of his company’s business. He noted that the decision directly impacts producers who advocated for regulation over prohibition. Ed Marszewski, co-owner of Marz Community Brewing Co., stated the company is prepared for the end. He said there is no market for their beverages in dispensaries.

Hemp-derived THC products entered the market through a loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill. That national law made hemp legal if it contained 0.3 percent delta-9 THC by dry weight. Companies later found ways to concentrate the compound for intoxicating effects. Chicago brewers adopted these drinks to boost lagging sales and reach new customers without requiring a dispensary visit.

Local politics have played a role in the decline. Two Chicago alderpeople have banned hemp products in their wards. The City Council voted in January to ban most hemp-derived THC products, with an exception for beverages. Mayor Brandon Johnson vetoed that ban the following month. President Donald Trump signed a law last year to close the federal loophole. Congress delayed the federal ban by one month over the summer.

Gov. JB Pritzker’s office did not respond to requests for comment. His office previously stated the federal delay occurred because Trump caved to special interests. Josh Deth, owner of Revolution Brewing, said his customers often do not understand why the drinks are leaving retail shelves. His brewery will halt sales of its Reverb product after Sunday. Binny’s posted a countdown sign at its Elston Avenue store, urging customers to buy now while stock lasts.