California Proposes Ban on Hemp Products with Detectable THC
Regulation aims to control intoxicating derivatives and protect public health.
California Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced a new emergency regulation to restrict the sale of hemp products containing any detectable amount of THC. The measure, aimed at combating the proliferation of intoxicating cannabinoids derived from hemp, is seen as an attempt to protect public health, especially for children and young people.
The new regulations establish that hemp products without THC will have a limit of five servings per package, and sales will only be permitted for those over 21 years old. "We will not tolerate the sale of unregulated hemp products that put our children at risk," Newsom stated in a press release.
Read also:
Understand why these products are considered intoxicating
Impact on Industry and Public Health
The regulation has received support from public health entities and the cannabis industry. Tomás Aragón, director of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), warned that intoxicating hemp-derived products "can harm consumers." Meanwhile, Nicole Elliott, director of the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), emphasized that the measure strengthens the integrity of the legal cannabis market.
On the other hand, representatives from the hemp industry criticized the proposal. Dale Gieringer from California NORML fears that consumers who rely on CBD products to treat conditions like epilepsy will be harmed. He highlighted that even approved medications, such as Epidiolex, contain trace amounts of THC.
Possible Economic Effects
The hemp industry expresses concern over the economic impact of the new rules. Adam Terry from the beverage company Cantrip predicts the closure of nearly all hemp product sales in the state, except in the illicit market. Jonathan Miller from the U.S. Hemp Roundtable called the regulation a “betrayal” of hemp farmers and consumers, estimating that up to 95% of CBD-based products would be banned.
The new regulation comes amid growing concerns about the effects of hemp derivatives on the cognitive development of young people. Studies indicate that intoxicating cannabinoids may be linked to hospitalizations of teenagers. To avoid these consequences, the regulation restricts the sale of hemp products to those over 21 years old.
Read also:
Adult cannabis use by teenagers may increase the risks of schizophrenia
Does cannabis legalization increase psychosis in teenagers?
Future Implications
The California regulation may serve as a model for other states and influence federal discussions on hemp-derived cannabinoids. The U.S. Congress is currently reviewing the 2024 Farm Bill, which may include prohibitions on these products.