What is synthetic THC? The legalization of hemp in 2018 through the Farm Bill, agricultural legislation that Congress passes every five years, has resulted in the creation of products containing synthetic hemp-derived compounds, such as those containing delta-8 THC. Delta-8 and other synthetic hemp-derived compounds (e.g. delta-10 THC, THC-O, HHC, HHC-O) are psychoactive and can result in a range of negative consequences, including addiction, psychosis, respiratory problems, and vomiting, among others. Such compounds exist in a legal gray area and are largely unregulated.
Why should you sound the alarm? A growing number of retailers are avoiding strict regulations and prohibitions by selling products containing these compounds. Often, they are sold in flavors like wedding cake, blackberry and Hawaiian Punch, and are marketed and sold to youth in accessible locations (e.g. gas stations, convenience stores).
What can you do? Send a letter to your members of Congress urging them to include provisions in this year’s Farm Bill that close the loophole for delta-8 and other similar products by subjecting the manufacture and sale of all intoxicating and psychoactive hemp-derived compounds to the same regulations as those for marijuana.
