Missouri Governor Signs Executive Order to Ban Intoxicating Hemp Product Sales

LOS ANGELES- Missouri Governor Mike Parson has signed an executive order banning the sale of intoxicating, hemp-derived products in the state, effective September 1. The order prohibits the sale of hemp-derived products containing delta-8 and delta-10 THC, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-O), tetrahydrocannabiphoral (THCP), and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) unless sourced from an approved provider.

The governor cited a 600% increase in cannabis poisoning among young children as a key reason for the ban, emphasizing the lack of regulation for these hemp-derived products. Paula Nickelson, Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services, noted, “Unlike the marijuana products effectively regulated by our division of cannabis regulation, these hemp-derived, psychoactive products are not required to undergo a robust screening to help ensure consumer health and safety.”

Adult-use cannabis products sourced from state-licensed operators will remain unaffected by this order.

Public and Industry Reactions

The Missouri Hemp Trade Association expressed opposition to the ban, stating, “We estimate there are nearly 10,000 retail points of sale for legal hemp products in Missouri, supporting tens of thousands of jobs.”

Delta-8 THC and similar compounds have faced increased scrutiny from regulators following the 2018 Farm Bill, which enabled the growth of these products. The new order will restrict the sale of food products containing psychoactive cannabis compounds unless they come from an approved source.

Enforcement and Future Regulations

The Department of Health and Senior Services will enforce the executive order by embargoing and condemning non-compliant products. Retail establishments holding liquor licenses will also be prohibited from selling these products.

Governor Parson and Attorney General Andrew Bailey highlighted public health concerns, with Parson stating, “This Executive Order effectively bans the sale of these potentially harmful products in Missouri until such time approved sources can be regulated by the FDA or State of Missouri through legislative action.”

The order will remain in effect until the FDA or Missouri General Assembly establishes a regulatory framework for approved sources of psychoactive cannabis products.

Broader Regulatory Context

Missouri’s move is part of a wider trend of increased regulation of delta-8 THC and other cannabinoids across the United States. These substances often lack adequate testing or regulation, leading regulators to argue they pose health risks. Currently, 13 states have banned delta-8 THC sales.

In contrast, Florida has taken a different approach, with Governor Ron DeSantis vetoing a bill that would restrict the hemp industry, signaling a divergence in state-level regulatory strategies for hemp-derived products.

The executive order marks a significant step in Missouri’s approach to regulating hemp-derived products, with a focus on consumer safety and public health.