Lawsuits Claim Illinois Cannabis Companies Violate State Limits on THC
A Chicago law firm has filed lawsuits against several Illinois cannabis companies, alleging that they are violating state limits on the amount of THC allowed in each package. The lawsuits, filed by Luisi Holz Law, seek class-action status for customers who have purchased the products and are seeking more than $5 million in damages.
The lawsuits claim that the companies, including Acreage Holdings, Aeriz, The Cannabist Co., Cresco Labs, Ieso, Cannabist, Verano, and Progressive Treatment Solutions, are selling products that exceed the state’s limit of 100 milligrams of THC per package. By designating some products as concentrates, which have no such limit, the companies are able to sell products containing one gram (1,000 milligrams) of THC, the lawsuits allege.
The complaints also claim that the manufacturers took market share and increased prices for consumers, causing them “damages and harm.” The lawsuits seek to hold the companies accountable for violating state law and for the harm caused to consumers.
One of the plaintiffs, Stefania Morgante, is a medicinal cannabis patient who uses Rick Simpson Oil, a cannabis oil, as part of her treatment for melanoma. She claims that the product’s high potency poses a risk to her health and well-being.
The defendants have denied the allegations, with Aeriz stating that similar complaints have been filed against the majority of Illinois cannabis producers and that the company believes its products are fully compliant with state laws and regulations. Verano also denied the allegations, stating that the products are classified and regulated as cannabis concentrates, not cannabis-infused products.
The lawsuits highlight the ongoing debate over cannabis potency and the need for stricter regulations to protect consumers. As the cannabis industry continues to grow, it is essential to ensure that products are safe and compliant with state and federal laws.
