Delta-8 THC Products are Banned in Missouri
The general retail sale of Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 THC and similar products is banned effective September 1, 2024, per Executive Order 24-10 issued by Missouri Governor Mike Parson. Beginning September 1, only state-licensed dispensaries will be allowed to sell hemp-derived drinks and edibles.
According to the Executive Order, gas stations, liquor stores and various retail establishments will no longer be allowed to sell any “psychoactive cannabis products.” The source of the THC does not matter. There is currently a variety of THC-infused products on the shelves, including chocolates, gummies, edibles, water, and teas, to name a few. With such short notice, the retailers will have a lot of inventory they cannot sell.
Missourians are still allowed to drink and eat THC products because marijuana use is legal for people 21 years and older in Missouri. Consumers can legally purchase intoxicating products at state-licensed stores. The state-licensed facilities require consumers to show an ID or medical card to purchase THC products, so children cannot access them.
The Executive Order is intended to protect children from unknowingly consuming products containing THC.
“Our goal is to safeguard the health and safety of Missourians, especially the most vulnerable: our children,” explained Governor Mike Parson to reporters.
Some Delta-8 THC and other synthetic products currently sold have packaging similar to popular cookies and candies, meaning children can easily and unintentionally buy and consume psychoactive products. Unlike marijuana manufacturers, the producers of hemp-derived products are not required to reveal the amount of intoxicating substances in their products.
Another concern is the sparse research on Delta-8 THC and other unregulated CBD substances. A small amount of Delta-8 occurs naturally in cannabis, but most Delta-8 THC in food, beverages and drinks is synthesized in a laboratory using various chemicals.
“This Executive Order effectively bans the sale of these potentially harmful products in Missouri until such time approved sources can be regulated by the FDA or State of Missouri through legislative action,” said Governor Mike Parson.
The Food and Drug Administration continues to refuse to regulate the CBD market until Congress acts, leading to a confusing mix of state laws. The 2018 Farm Bill and its amendments allow the production and sale of hemp-derived products, but they primarily address THC content in hemp crops. They do not address synthetic THC like Delta-8, which is manufactured.
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