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Hemp Growers Find Workaround To Euphoric Hemp

Store front window with writing
Blaise Gainey
/
WFSU-FM
Outside of Tallulah CBD Juice Bar, where a display reads that Delta-8, a type of THC, is sold here.

CBD and Hemp stores have found a loophole that allows them to sell a product similar to marijuana that induces a high. Marijuana is defined as having .3 percent or more of Delta-9-THC in it. The product being sold in retail stores contains a different THC called Delta-8. Alex Petrick with FloridaHempDistribution.com explains the workaround.

“Because there’s no laws explicitly talking about Delta-8-THC it leaves an opportunity open for the market to be able to make those products with no regulations on them, and be able to sell a THC version and not have to have a medical marijuana card or dispensary to be able to sell it and buy it,” said Petrick.

In August, the federal Drug Enforcement Administration ruled Delta-8-THC a synthetic cannabinoid, essentially making it illegal. Yet, Delta-8 THC is naturally found in the cannabis plant. The matter over whether it is synthetic will be argued in the US Court of Appeals where Hemp Industry members have asked for a review of the rule. Petrick says until a final decision is made, he’s going to keep selling Delta-8.

Blaise Gainey is a State Government Reporter for WFSU News. Blaise hails from Windermere, Florida. He graduated from The School of Journalism at the Florida A&M University. He formerly worked for The Florida Channel, WTXL-TV, and before graduating interned with WFSU News. He is excited to return to the newsroom. In his spare time he enjoys watching sports, Netflix, outdoor activities and anything involving his daughter.