Federal Update and Illinois Cannabis News | E304

This week, I recap several major cannabis developments, including the end of the month-long Ascend Wellness workers' strike, new Illinois medical cannabis changes taking effect this fall, and the latest federal developments surrounding the proposed hemp crackdown. I also discuss the Senate's effort to delay the federal hemp ban, the Illinois Attorney General's support for preserving the current timeline, and what these competing efforts could mean for consumers, businesses, and cannabis policy moving forward. I also share my perspective on the broader hemp debate, why I believe criminalization remains the central issue, and whether age-gated, tested, and accurately labeled cannabis products should be regulated rather than banned. Plus, I wrap up the live show by taking audience questions, discussing home grow, future guests, and plans for a Cole Memo community pizza meetup. Watch video version and read full show notes here: https://thecolememo.com/2026/08/04/e304/