#274 - Illinois Policy Stalls, Data Privacy Concerns, and the Hemp Drink Boom

This episode covers a range of developing stories shaping the cannabis landscape. Cole breaks down allegations against Verano involving the exposure of sensitive patient data, highlighting ongoing concerns around privacy in the medical market. He also explores Target’s expansion into hemp-derived THC drinks in Minnesota, raising questions about corporate influence and what companies may be anticipating as regulatory changes loom. The episode also features Cole’s latest Illinois Cannabis Report for Cannabis Coast to Coast News, where he discusses stalled legislation around odor-based vehicle searches and the broader pattern of slow reform in the state. The conversation ties into bigger themes around access, enforcement, and how policy continues to impact both consumers and workers. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/04/15/e274/