Mississippi lawmakers are currently evaluating two bills that propose banning intoxicating hemp products. This initiative has sparked a debate, particularly among opponents who argue that hemp-derived products serve as a legal and accessible alternative to medical marijuana.
Legislative Proposals
The House bill aims to regulate hemp products, while the Senate bill seeks to classify them as a Schedule One drug. Both pieces of legislation have successfully passed through their respective chambers and are now under consideration in the other chamber.
Following the legislative deadline for bill passage, the House approved House Bill 1502, which would prohibit the unregulated sale of THC-derived hemp products, such as Delta 8. The proposed legislation would impose a limit of 0.3% THC in hemp products, ban synthetic variants, and mandate that all hemp products be sold only to individuals aged 21 and older. Importantly, the legislation allows hemp beverages, which would be regulated under state law and capped at 5 milligrams of THC.
Concerns about Unregulated Products
Rep. Lee Yancey, a proponent of the bill, noted that similar legislation was attempted last year but failed to progress in the Senate. He emphasized the aim to eliminate unregulated and potentially hazardous products from convenience stores, describing the current situation as a “recreational marijuana program in gas stations.” Yancey highlighted the inconsistency in THC levels in unregulated products compared to those available in licensed medical cannabis dispensaries.
Furthermore, he reiterated the need for regulatory oversight, stating, “We know something needs to be done.”
Advocacy for Safer Regulations
The Senate’s corresponding legislation, Senate Bill 2314, passed on February 6 and also aims to classify intoxicating hemp products as Schedule One substances. As Mississippi’s medical cannabis industry expands, stakeholders—including legal cannabis business owners and health advocates—are increasingly advocating for the removal of hemp-based THC products from mainstream retail locations.
A previously held press conference in Jackson aimed to educate the public about the potential dangers associated with these products, highlighting tests that revealed many convenience stores were selling THC products with higher potency than those in licensed dispensaries.
“This is a very serious public safety concern that needs to be addressed,” stated William Chism, a spokesperson for the Mississippi Medical Marijuana Association. He pointed out the discrepancies in labeling and regulation of hemp-derived products, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to promoting access to safer products.
Future Outlook
While efforts to pass similar legislation stalled in the 2024 session, Chism mentioned that the Mississippi Medical Marijuana Association’s stance remains consistent: they support any legislation that enhances safety for consumers.
For ongoing developments regarding this legislation and the cannabis industry in Mississippi, interested parties can refer to the Mississippi Medical Marijuana Association.