Arkansas enforcement agents have seized about 6,000 illegal hemp-derived THC products since mid-July, following a federal appeals court ruling that upheld the state’s ban on intoxicating substances made from industrial hemp.
The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration’s Regulatory Division, which oversees Alcoholic Beverage Control, Tobacco Control and Medical Marijuana, said agents made more than 2,800 visits to retailers between June 25 and July 14 to explain the ban and warn of penalties. A letter outlining the ruling was also distributed.
Formal enforcement began in mid-July, officials said. In addition to product seizures, two felony arrests were made and numerous misdemeanor citations issued.
“I am proud of our Regulatory Enforcement Agents for their around the clock work to remove these illegal and dangerous products from stores in Arkansas,” DFA Secretary Jim Hudson said in a statement. “Their work protects all Arkansans, especially our children.”
Regulatory Enforcement Director David Potter said most businesses complied, but some continued to stock or covertly sell the products, which he described as synthetically produced and often packaged to resemble candy, snacks or drinks. “These substances pose significant risks to public health, particularly to Arkansas youth,” Potter said.
The DFA said possession of hemp-derived THC products is also illegal.
The notice to retailers and additional guidance documents are available on the DFA website.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI