Illinois is officially venturing into the world of cannabis research.
On Thursday, the City of Chicago launched the new Cannabis Research Institute (CRI).
Chicago launched CRI in collaboration with the State of Illinois and the Discovery Partners Institute (DPI).
According to a press release from the city, the first-of-its-kind center will further Illinois as a science hub globally.
DPI, a part of the University of Illinois System, will house CRI.
The city says the joint effort will provide robust research data to advance public knowledge on cannabis’ socio-economic impacts.
CRI is looking for an executive director during its scheduled rollout over the next few months.
“I am thrilled to announce the launch of the Cannabis Research Institute—a national first, creating actionable research to inform data-driven policymaking and advance public knowledge on the impacts of cannabis,” said Governor J.B. Pritzker in a press release. “I can think of no better place than Illinois for this endeavor. We are the heart of the Midwest and at the very forefront of cannabis legalization—all while dismantling the long-lasting effects of the War on Drugs on our communities.”
Research to Reform
The city says federal cannabis policy is hindering studies on the health effects of cannabis.
According to the city, CRI seeks to provide cannabis research that will inform regulation and policy to protect public health.
CRI also wants to advance scientific and medical cannabis technology and address concerns about new market and policy impacts.
DPI is building a team to bring together research institutions, government agencies, businesses, and communities.
“We now have years of experience building research teams across disciplines and across institutions,” says DPI Executive Director Bill Jackson. “We’re excited to forge new territory and partnerships, conducting research that will make our city safer and healthier—and our society more equitable.”
Among the proposed research topics are social equity impacts, medicinal & health effects, and agricultural practices.
The research will also analyze cannabis legalization’s impacts on society, medical cannabis program demographics, and medication efficacy.
CRI will work with the state Cannabis Regulatory Oversight Officer, the DEA, and other regulatory agencies.