Know The Legal Status of Delta 8 THC in Illinois Before You Buy Online

Illinois has had a pretty open attitude towards the legalization of cannabis, but the appearance of a multitude of cannabinoid products begs the question of their particular legality. Recently, there’s been some noise regarding the legal status of hemp-derived delta 8 THC in the Prairie State. 

Let’s look at the current hemp laws in the state and whether you can buy Δ8-THC products with no restrictions. 

Is Delta 8 THC Legal in Illinois? 

Illinois hasn’t banned the distribution and sale of delta 8 THC products derived from hemp. As of this writing, you can legally purchase Δ8-THC products in Illinois. 

What is Delta 8 THC? 

Delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol is an isomer of delta 9 THC with mildly intoxicating properties. It’s a hemp derivative that can be isomerized from cannabidiol (CBD) or created as a byproduct of the natural degradation of delta 9 THC. Delta 8 is less likely to cause an “anxious high” than traditional THC. 

To activate its intoxicating properties, this cannabinoid binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain. Delta 8 is mildly psychotropic and causes an uplifting, clear-headed “high” that gives the user a calm and mellow state of mind. Research shows that this compound can be beneficial for pain, anxiety, low appetite, poor sleep, nausea and vomiting.  

Buying Delta 8 THC in Illinois

At Crazy8s, you can find top-shelf delta 8 THC products. We are focused on crafting premium items that are tested by a third-party, certified lab. Each item comes with a Certificate of analysis to confirm the accuracy and prove that THC levels are below the federally legal limit of 0.3% by weight. 

By specializing in Δ8-THC products, we can bring you pure and potent formulas in recommended doses. A great example is our Delta 8 THC Gummies that are available in three dosage options, including 10mg, 20mg, and 50mg. Each gummy is infused with premium Δ8-THC distillate that’s been made in the US and is a 100% vegan and organic formula. The best thing about gummies is that they offer a precise dose of cannabinoids and terpenes.   

Not only are they made from natural ingredients, but these gummies are absolutely delicious. Available in two flavors, Passion Fruit and Black Cherry Vanilla, they offer a pure delta 8 experience. 

If you want to feel the benefits of full spectrum hemp, consider our delta 8 pre-rolls. We understand they are not suitable for anyone who’s not a smoker, but if you are, they are the most potent pre-rolls you’ve ever tried. 

One gram pre-roll is made with freshly ground hemp flower in the strain Stormy Daniels. To add a boost of cannabinoids, the CBD flower is then rolled into kief and sprayed with pure Δ8-THC distillate. You can definitely expect them to pack a punch!

Is Delta 8 THC Legal in Illinois?

Delta 8 THC products are legal in Illinois. The state hasn’t explicitly banned or prohibited the distribution and sale of this compound. 

Although delta 8 is legal in Illinois, the state is actively trying to regulate this cannabinoid — and other THC isomers. There’s an ongoing debate on which way to go with these products — especially considering the chaotic situation on the market.

There were attempts to pass a bill that would regulate the testing and labeling of these products, but it fell short in the Senate.  

Illinois legalized hemp in August 2018 with the Industrial Hemp Act. This Act permitted the cultivation and use of hemp plants for research and commercial purposes. After federal legalization of the hemp plant, the state adopted temporary rules that define hemp and allowed the sale of hemp-derived products with no more than 0.3% delta 9 by weight. 

What Does the Future Hold?  

On January 1st, 2020, Illinois sales of recreational marijuana became legal. The state is the eleventh state in the nation to allow people to use weed legally. Governor JB Pritzker approved the bill that permits the growing, use, and sale of tiny amounts of marijuana.  In 2021 alone, recreational marijuana sales topped $1 billion. 

When it comes to the future of delta 8 THC, it’s likely that the state will regulate or restrict the compound within its recreational cannabis system. That would be a great move for the user, considering its popularity and the lax laws around its safety.

Is Delta 8 THC Legal Federally?

The legal status of delta 8 THC on a federal level hasn’t been resolved, so the compound remains in a gray legal area. 

The federal government pushed back against the use of Δ8-THC. Back in August 2020, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) published an Interim Rule, which stated that synthetically derived THCs are banned substances, and the 2018 Farm Bill doesn’t affect their illegal status.  

The risk here is for processors who will be considered in possession of a controlled substance if, during the extraction process, the THC concentrate exceeds the 0.3% THC threshold. This is tricky because the hemp plant and its derivatives are not considered marijuana, so the DEA is introducing a situation where hemp extract could be deemed illegal. 

The 2018 Farm Bill removed the hemp plant and its tetrahydrocannabinols from the definition of marijuana and the list of controlled substances. The bill legalized the plant and any part of the plant with less than 0.3% delta 9. 

This includes naturally occurring derivatives, cannabinoids, extracts, and isomers. Delta 8 THC is a natural hemp derivative that’s not considered marijuana, so it falls outside of the DEA’s authority. 

Also, the US Food and Drug Administration recently released an advisory that warns against the health risks of Δ8-THC. The FDA reminded that this cannabinoid has yet to be approved for safe use and is working to address concerns related to this compound. 

The industry awaits a shift in enforcement policy after the release of the interim rule. Until that happens, this cannabinoid is stuck in a gray area. The federal government seems to avoid going into depths regarding the legality of this cannabinoid. Until it does, delta 8 THC products will continue to be distributed and fly off the shelves in most states in the nation.

Read our legal disclaimer HERE. While we try to stay as up to date as possible on all state laws, you should do your own due diligence and work with a legal professional to ensure you are operating legally in your state or territory at all times.