Alton Police Warn Retailers on New Hemp Age Law

A new Illinois law bars sales of intoxicating hemp products to anyone under 21, and Alton police say businesses should prepare for active enforcement and compliance checks.

Jul 3, 2026 11:20 AM

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ALTON - The Alton Police Department said it is reminding local retailers in Alton that a new state law now prohibits the sale of intoxicating hemp products to anyone younger than 21, and that officers will actively enforce the measure through investigations and random compliance checks.

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The Alton Police Department said the law applies immediately to intoxicating hemp products such as Delta-8, THC-P, HHC and similar substances that had previously been sold outside Illinois’ regulated adult-use cannabis market.

The department said officers will investigate complaints involving the unlawful sale of intoxicating hemp products to minors and will conduct random compliance checks at businesses throughout the city.

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“Working together, we can help keep these products out of the hands of minors and continue to make our community a safer place,” Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said.

The police department urged retailers to review the new law and make sure employees understand the age restrictions. It said violations may result in fines and could affect a business’s local licensing status.

Alton Police said that beginning in November 2026, the products will be subject to additional state regulations, including child-resistant packaging requirements and restrictions on marketing that may appeal to children.

Anyone with information about the unlawful sale of intoxicating hemp products to people under 21 is encouraged to contact the Alton Police Department at (618) 463-3505, according to the post.

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