More than 30 US states seek to ban over-the-counter sales of synthetic phytocannabinoids

States such as California and Missouri have recently joined the 30 or so US states attempting to ban the marketing of synthetic phytocannabinoids (delta-8-THC, delta-10-THC, HHC, THCP and other variants) derived from hemp and currently unregulated on the market.

These synthetic cannabinoids came on the scene after the federal legalization of hemp in 2018, especially in US states where cannabis is still illegal. Created from CBD, these molecules, which sometimes exist in their natural state, more or less faithfully reproduce the psychotropic effects of cannabis.

California regulatory measures

California has taken a proactive stance on these products. Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered state agencies to issue warnings to cannabis licensees about the illegality and safety risks of cannabis products. delta-8 THC. These compounds, often presented as alternatives to cannabis, have raised concerns due to their availability in retail outlets and online platforms.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) have issued notices aimed at curbing the distribution of THC beverages The aim is to prevent these products from reaching minors, and to ensure compliance with strict consumer safety laws, including labelling requirements. The aim is to prevent these products from reaching minors, and to ensure compliance with strict consumer safety laws, including labeling requirements.

Missouri Legislative Initiatives

In Missouri, legislative initiatives such as Senate Bill 984 (SB 984) and House Bill 1781 (HB 1781) are a reminder of the urgency of regulating psychotropic products derived from hemp. These bills propose measures such as assigning regulation to the Missouri Department of Health, banning sales to people under 21, requiring laboratory testing, enforcing appropriate labeling and instituting child-resistant packaging.

Missouri law enforcement, otherwise burdened by the opioid crisis, has expressed support for the bills. Police chiefs stress need to fight accessibility of delta-8 THC and similar substances, which are often packaged to look like candy and target teenagers.

Louisiana proposals

By requiring that substances in hemp-based edibles be extracted naturally, the Louisiana state bill would eliminate the vast array of intoxicating hemp products, and synthetic concoctions that are prepared in laboratories from hemp-derived CBD.

They include delta-8 THC, the most popular substance, the delta-10 THC, THC-O-acetate, the THCP and others.

Other key provisions of HB 952 include:

• Ban on the sale of hemp flowers
• Edible hemp products may not contain more than 9 milligrams of total THC per serving.
• These products may not exceed 0.3 % total THC delta-9
• Alcoholic beverages may not contain THC, CBD or other cannabinoids
• Non-alcoholic beverages may not contain more than 8 milligrams of THC per serving.

Pressure for regulation also stems from safety concerns and allegations of mislabeling practices within the industry.