The hemp industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, with the legalization of hemp and hemp-derived products under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, the industry is now facing a new threat from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which has recently targeted hemp-derived Delta-8 THC and synthetic cannabinoids.
Delta-8 THC is a minor cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants, which has gained popularity in recent months due to its psychoactive effects. Unlike Delta-9 THC, which is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, Delta-8 THC is legal under federal law as long as it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC.
However, the DEA has recently issued an interim final rule that could potentially classify Delta-8 THC as a Schedule I controlled substance, which would make it illegal under federal law. The DEA argues that Delta-8 THC can be synthesized from CBD, which is also legal under federal law, and therefore should be classified as a controlled substance.
This move by the DEA has caused concern among hemp industry stakeholders, who argue that Delta-8 THC is a natural compound found in hemp and should not be classified as a controlled substance. They also argue that the DEA’s interpretation of the law is flawed, as Delta-8 THC is not explicitly listed as a controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act.
In addition to targeting Delta-8 THC, the DEA has also issued warning letters to companies selling synthetic cannabinoids, which are chemical compounds designed to mimic the effects of natural cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Synthetic cannabinoids are often sold as “legal highs” and have been linked to numerous health problems, including seizures, psychosis, and even death.
While the DEA’s actions may be well-intentioned, they could have serious consequences for the hemp industry. If Delta-8 THC is classified as a controlled substance, it could potentially lead to the seizure of hemp-derived Delta-8 THC products and the prosecution of those who sell or possess them. This could have a chilling effect on the hemp industry, which has been growing rapidly in recent years and has the potential to create thousands of jobs and generate billions of dollars in revenue.
Furthermore, the DEA’s actions could also lead to confusion among consumers, who may be unsure about the legality of Delta-8 THC and other hemp-derived products. This could potentially harm the reputation of the hemp industry and make it more difficult for companies to market their products.
In conclusion, the DEA’s targeting of hemp-derived Delta-8 THC and synthetic cannabinoids is a concerning development for the hemp industry. While the DEA may have legitimate concerns about the safety of these products, it is important that they take a measured approach that does not harm the growing hemp industry. It is also important for industry stakeholders to continue advocating for the legalization of all hemp-derived products and pushing back against any attempts to restrict their use.
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- Source: https://zephyrnet.com/the-end-of-the-hemp-industry-the-dea-is-coming-for-hemp-derived-delta-8-thc-and-maybe-more-synthetic-cannabinoids/