A new cannabis “czar” has been selected by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker to provide oversight for the state’s industry — former Obama administration insider Danielle Perry. The state Senate must now confirm the new position before Perry can commence with regulatory oversight for the newly launched cannabis industry in Illinois.

Toi Hutchinson, who previously served as state senator, was the first person to be appointed as the cannabis “czar” in Illinois. Unfortunately, Hutchinson relinquished his power to oversee the legal market due to a specific state law that restricted formerly-serving lawmakers from carrying out these duties whilst simultaneously working in-office.

Perry is sure to have her work cut out, since she will be in charge of dealing with the market’s rapid expansion; a record-breaking $61 million was recorded in recreational cannabis sales this July and over $300 million worth of transactions have been logged this year. Moreover, she will be responsible for managing the license distribution process among budding entrepreneurs.

What experience does the new cannabis czar in Illinois have under her belt?

According to a spokeswoman for the Cannabis Association of Illinois (CannaBiz IL) – a group committed to creating opportunities for residents of the state – Perry is a “perfect fit” for her role as cannabis czar. Considering her level of experience, it’s clear why. Prior to her acceptance of the role of cannabis czar in Illinois, Perry provided oversight for an agriculture job training program. 

In addition to this, she boasts experience as the communications director at the Chicago Inspector General’s office. Moreover, Perry held a post in President Barack Obama’s Department of Agriculture and was also a member of Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s transition committee.

Illinois prompted to apply adult-use cannabis tax revenue to social equity

It could be just a matter of time until social equity applicants are able to use tax revenue from recreational cannabis sales in Illinois as a means of supporting their business endeavors. A cannabis-focused group claims that social equity applicants are drowning as a result of ongoing expenses caused by coronavirus-fueled licensing delays.

A letter sent to Gov. J.B. Pritzker by the CannaBiz IL outlined the group’s ideas to apply adult-use cannabis tax revenue to social equity. The association claims that it will offer qualified applicants a free membership for the remainder of 2020. Moreover, CannaBiz IL wants to develop a committee that can advise and support applicants in their efforts to partake in Illinois’ adult-use cannabis market.

“We all recognize that the industry cannot reach its full potential without awarding these social equity licenses, and many of these applicants cannot afford an extended delay,” reads an excerpt from the letter. “Their expenses continue to mount every day these licenses are delayed.”