Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – One of the big bills expected to run during the just-concluded lame duck session, the regulation of hemp derivatives such as delta-8, did not even get called in the House.

The sponsor, State Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago), says he is hopeful to nail it down this year. Gov. JB Pritzker criticized opponents for killing a bill meant to protect children. But Buckner says it’s just not that simple.

“It’s a complex issue. It’s a public health issue, it’s a public safety issue, it’s an economic development issue, it’s a regulatory issue,” said Buckner as the 103rd General Assembly adjourned. “When you talk about all four of those big areas, they take some conversation. This isn’t the first time we have had that conversation. I think the first delta-8 bill was filed three years ago.”