CRC Targets Synthetic Cannabinoids
The enforcement had been initially halted due to a federal judge’s ruling in Loki Brands LLC et al. v. Platkin et al., which prevented immediate action on most provisions. However, the CRC stated in a press release that prohibitions on sales to individuals under 21 and on non-naturally derived THC products are now enforceable.
Read Also: Ohio Lawmaker Moves To Ban Hemp Products, Citing Youth Safety Concerns
Frustration Mounts Over Cannabis Lounge Approval Delays
Simultaneously, while the CRC ramps up enforcement against synthetic hemp products, the state’s cannabis consumption lounges face significant delays. Despite rules being approved nearly ten months ago, the CRC has yet to open applications for retailers.
Legal Loopholes Fuel Unregulated Events
The lack of progress has led to frustration among retailers and has spurred unregulated events that exploit legal loopholes. “There's really nothing that anybody can do about it, and that's the problem, and that's been the problem all along … we see how people just do the workaround,” said Scott Rudder, president of the New Jersey CannaBusiness Association.
Furthermore, cannabis attorney Jessica Gonzalez pointed out that the scarcity of approved consumption areas limits options for consumers, especially those whose landlords prohibit smoking or vaping. She emphasized the need for state officials to educate municipalities on the benefits of consumption lounges, as fewer than a dozen have passed ordinances allowing them.
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