THC gummies are one step closer to being banned in Elgin. The city council granted preliminary approval for a ban with a 7-2 vote on Wednesday. This means that the ban is not set yet, but the first step has been taken.
This order would ban the display, sale, advertisement, and delivery of Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, without having a state license. This is only applying to edibles. However, you will not be criminalized for possession.
There are two main reasons why Elgin is moving towards the ban. One reason is that Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are synthetically derived. These are unregulated and untested. Council member Anthony Ortiz spoke on this.
"Marijuana is regulated, and I'm a supporter of marijuana and the cannabis industry. But at this time, I can't be a supporter of this because we don't know what this is."
The other argument is that the gummies and treats are targeted towards kids. Many believe the packaging and design lead to dangerous consequences for children. On the other hand, many don't like to smoke, but still want to enjoy the drug. Gummies are known to have a more intense high and last much longer than smoking a joint. People also believe it is up to the parent to keep their product out of the reach of children, much like with alcohol.
Council members Carol Rauschenburger and Tish Powell are the sole council members on this side. They are pushing to move to a 21+ age restriction and to place THC gummies behind the counter.
The ban is still waiting for a final approval.