Key Takeaways
- New regulations require the removal of Delta-9 THC from hemp intended for human consumption in Alaska.
- These changes are set to go into effect on Nov. 3.Delta-9 THC is responsible for the intoxicating effect associated with the cannabis plant.
- State officials and marijuana advocates see the move as a safety measure, while hemp businesses perceive it as an attempt to stifle competition.
Anchorage, Alaska--Hemp is primarily utilized for commercial and industrial products, ranging from rope and clothing to food.
The plant is legal throughout the United States. However, while many believe hemp isn't intoxicating, it can be when it contains Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.
This component is what primarily gets individuals high.
Why the Change?
The Alaska Alcohol & Marijuana Control Office (AMCO) raised concerns after finding intoxicating hemp products in Anchorage without age restrictions.
According to Alaska’s News Source report, Joan Wilson, the executive director of AMCO, expressed, “One, my primary concern has always been the wellbeing of kids, so this product currently is not age-gated.”
These stores, unlike cannabis shops, were not subjected to high taxation. Per the report, Wilson further stated, "They don’t carry the same tax burden as that applies to our recreational marijuana cultivators."
The fact that some stores in Anchorage were selling hemp with Delta-9 from outside the state led to additional pushback about these changes in the hemp industry.
Industry Reactions
Dan Ferguson of Primo Alaska, a local hemp product manufacturer, believes the changes would render 90-95% of all hemp products in the state illegal.
Per the report, he commented, “This is basically a kill shot from the cannabis industry to the HEMP industry in [Alaska].”
Ferguson also insinuated that the motives behind these regulations were to favor cannabis businesses at the expense of the hemp industry.
According to an Anchorage Daily News report, on the other hand, Brandon Emmett, co-chair of Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s task force on recreational marijuana, supports these regulations.
He advised those seeking intoxicating cannabinoids to patronize licensed marijuana retailers.
Implications for the Future
The regulations bring along considerable consequences.
Hemp-derived products, which have previously been available at vape shops, gas stations, and other stores, would now be under tighter control.
Some non-intoxicating "full-spectrum" hemp products intended for epilepsy and pain management will also be affected, leading to additional production costs for manufacturers.
For businesses like Primo Alaska, these changes imply significant losses.
Per the report, Danny Ferguson mentioned having over 13,000 hemp-derived edibles in stock with no feasible way to sell them in Alaska by November.
In the report, Ryan Tunseth, president of the Alaska Marijuana Industry Association, however, emphasizes the importance of these regulations for safety and proper tax collection.
What Do We Think
The changes to hemp regulations in Alaska signify a pivotal moment in the ongoing tussle between the marijuana and hemp industries.
While the intent behind these regulations is primarily to ensure safety and appropriate tax collection, it's evident that the hemp industry faces considerable challenges ahead.
How these businesses pivot and adapt will be crucial in determining their long-term viability in the Alaskan market.
[Photo by Kindel Media]