Missouri bans sale of Delta-8 THC and other unregulated CBD intoxicants

2024-12-25 02:08:08 source: category:Finance

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri is banning the sale of drinks, candy and other foods made with hemp-derived intoxicating substances, Republican Gov. Mike Parson announced in an an executive order issued Thursday.

The ban kicks in Sept. 1.

Parson cited health concerns and lack of research on Delta-8 THC and similar unregulated CBD substances.

He also made clear that his order does not prohibit consumption of psychoactive hemp products. The rules “are not here to punish consumers,” Parson said.

“Our goal is to safeguard the health and safety of Missourians, especially the most vulnerable: our children,” he told reporters gathered in his Jefferson City Capitol building office.

CBD and similar compounds have boomed in popularity since the 2018 farm bill legalized hemp production, and are found in lotions, tinctures, candies, vapes and more.

Candies and drinks with hemp-derived intoxicants are sometimes used as alternatives to marijuana or alcohol. Recreational marijuana use is legal for adults ages 21 and older in Missouri.

While there is a lack of government regulation for the CBD-derived products, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration did approve one drug that contains CBD in 2018 to help treat two rare seizure disorders.

RELATED COVERAGE Exonerees call on Missouri Republican attorney general to stop fighting innocence claims A pro-Israel super PAC helped defeat one Squad member. Now it’s going after another, Cori Bush Relatives sue for prison video after guards charged in Black Missouri man’s death

Delta-8 THC is of particular concern, because of adverse side effects and because of how it is chemically manufactured.

Other states also ban or regulate delta-8 THC, though it is sold in many states due to a loophole in federal law.

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Director Paula Nickelson said there have been reports of adults and children being hospitalized after consuming the substances, which sometimes are packaged similarly to existing candies marketed for children.

She advised adults to throw away products with those substances.

More:Finance

Recommend

World War II veteran reflects on life as he turns 100

Before shipping overseas for World War II, Bud Sabetay enjoyed a trip to Coney Island amusement park

Federal judge blocks Montana's TikTok ban before it takes effect

A federal judge has blocked a law in Montana that sought to ban TikTok across the state, delivering

Cockpit voice recordings get erased after some close calls. The FAA will try to fix that

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. regulators will propose requiring that new planes be capable of recording 25