CASPER, Wyo. — In response to an impending crackdown, cannabis retailers are significantly reducing their inventory of products containing delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and closely related psychoactive substances, which are broadly banned under Wyoming law.
District Attorney Dan Itzen, along with local chiefs and the sheriff, alerted stores in a letter regarding potential illegal sales. The letter emphasized that Wyoming’s legislation has criminalized the sale and possession of several compounds, including Delta-8 THC, HHC, and THCP, among others.
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp, allowing products with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. This led to the proliferation of various psychoactive compounds until Wyoming imposed a ban in June 2024. Recently enacted legislation broadened the definition of THC to include these substances under the term “synthetics.”
Jeffrey Campbell, the owner of Wyoming Organics, expressed concern over losing a significant portion of his inventory due to the new regulations. He mentioned a misconception regarding the legality of THC-A, a naturally occurring compound in hemp that becomes THC upon combustion. “It’s legal when it leaves the store,” he noted.
Despite this, Campbell plans to clear his inventory by Saturday, refusing to exploit any legal loopholes. “I’m tired of it breathing down my neck all the time,” he said, prioritizing the well-being of his customers and employees.
The DA’s letter indicated that compliance checks would be conducted within 45 days, prompting store owners to act swiftly.
Frustrated by his investment in a business that initially operated under favorable conditions in 2022, Campbell stated that all his products are lab-certified, and his staff is trained to advise customers properly. He also lamented the missed tax revenue for the state due to these prohibitions, asserting that local taxes are likely to benefit neighboring states.
As for the Wyoming Organics location, Campbell is considering a rebranding to focus on a soda fountain, pivoting away from cannabis sales.