GTI's Alleged "Pay-to-Play," Now Under Federal Investigation

<p>A Chicago-based marijuana cultivator and dispenser that has rapidly grown into one of the nation’s biggest pot firms is under federal investigation for possible pay-to-play violations during its push for coveted state licenses, sources said.</p> <p>Investigators have been scrutinizing campaign donations and other steps Green Thumb Industries took as it sought to secure growing and distribution licenses in Illinois and several other states, sources told the Chicago Tribune.</p> <p>No charges have been filed as part of the investigation and a company spokeswoman said Green Thumb Industries was not aware of any probe.</p> <p>State campaign financing records show the company has donated directly to politicians in numerous other states where it holds licenses, including New Jersey, Connecticut and Maryland. State records show that during its rise, GTI’s executives and affiliates have spread cash to a number of politicians as well as a political action committee that were instrumental in the marijuana legalization effort.The company also hired a succession of lobbyists and consultants with deep ties to then-House Speaker Michael Madigan, records show.</p> <p>Show Notes:<br /> Chicago-based marijuana giant part of federal pay-to-play investigation<br /> https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/criminal-justice/ct-green-thumb-industries-chicago-marijuana-federal-investigation-20210329-kaccpshrgjakhdkovp7mmwklgi-story.html</p> <p>Guest:<br /> Katrina Glogowski, Seattle Attorney & Angel Investor<br /> https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-glogowski-711a985/</p> <p>Host:<br /> Josh Kincaid, Capital Markets Analyst & host of your cannabis business podcast.<br /> https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkincaid/</p> <p>Episode 689 of The Talking Hedge:<br /> Your Cannabis Business Podcast.<br /> ​Covering cannabis products, reviews, business news, interviews, investments, events, and more.<br /> https://www.theTalkingHedgepodcast.com</p> <p>Music Info:<br /> Song: Beat | Keep On | 2020<br /> Artist: Milochromatic Beats<br /> &<br /> Song: