A bill that would ban certain hemp-derived products that mirror the psychoactive component of cannabis has advanced in the Arkansas Legislature.
According to Little Rock NPR affiliate KUAR, lawmakers on the Senate Agriculture, Forestry and Economic Development committee on Tuesday voted to advance Senate Bill 358, which would ban certain products derived from hemp that mirror the effects of THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis. Such products, which according to the bill’s sponsor, are poorly regulated, contain delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, or Delta-8.
According to the KUAR article, other chemicals branded as “synthetic marijuana” are currently banned in Arkansas. However, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the production and sales of hemp nationwide. Products that SB358 seeks to ban are currently legal as a result and available for purchase in stores across the state.
The article notes those speaking against the bill said many Arkansans use Delta-8 and similar products as an alternative to medical marijuana, to save money and still retain the right to own firearms. Other opponents to the bill included owners of CBD stores who say the legislation will put them out of business.
Click here to read the full article from KUAR.
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