Add Missouri to the growing list of states imposing bans on delta-8 and other intoxicating hemp-derived products.
Republican Gov. Mike Parson on Thursday issued an executive order prohibiting the sale of products containing psychoactive cannabis compounds at retail locations, including liquor stores.
Stores violating the order are subject to disciplinary actions from the Missouri Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Control, according to the order.
The state’s Department of Health & Senior Services plans to embargo such products, according to a news release from the governor’s office.
“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,” Parson said in a statement.
“Protecting Missourians, especially the most vulnerable, our children, has been our guiding principle since the very beginning and remains so today.”
Products containing delta-8 THC and other hemp-derived cannabinoids have soared in popularity since the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp production and sales nationwide.
Sales of these largely untested and unregulated products have primarily taken root in states without adult-use marijuana programs and/or with consumers younger than 21, industry sources contend.
John Mueller, CEO of Kansas City-based marijuana multistate operator Greenlight Dispensary, one of Missouri’s largest dispensary chains, applauded the governor’s decision.
“These products have been far too easily accessible, and their deceptive packaging has led to numerous adverse health incidents,” he said in a statement sent to MJBizDaily.
“The governor’s order will help create a safer environment for consumers while also leveling the playing field for responsible, law-abiding cannabis businesses in our market.”
According to MJBizDaily research, the sale of delta-8 THC is banned in some form in at least 18 states.
