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ARTICLE · 24 AUGUST 2026

The Week In Weed: August 21, 2026

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Illinois adult-use dispensaries can now apply for medical cannabis licenses starting September, enabling one-stop shopping for consumers. Virginia's hemp ban restricting THC content to 2% per package takes effect despite legal challenges. The Texas Senate race sees cannabis policy emerge as a campaign issue, while actor Matthew McConaughey reveals his decision to quit marijuana after missing his birthday party.

United StatesConsumer Protection
Susan Ryan
Susan Ryan
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Welcome back to The Week in Weed, your Friday look at what’s happening in the world of legalized marijuana. This week, we note that Illinois adult-use dispensaries will now be able to sell medical marijuana. Virginia’s hemp ban is in place as of this week. And speaking of hemp, as we so often do, it’s come up in the Texas Senate race. And finally, Matthew McConaughey reveals why he decided to stop smoking marijuana.

ILLINOIS

Starting next month, Illinois adult-use license holders can apply for a medical dispensary license. This will allow one-stop shopping at a single location. More choices for medical users and more customers for dispensaries with both licenses – sounds like a win-win. There’s a $5K application fee, and an additional $10K renewal fee. Reduced tax rates for medical customers will not go into effect until the license is approved.

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