Louisiana's Top CBD Producer Files Lawsuit Against State Over Confiscation Of Hemp Products

A maker of recreational cannabis edibles based in Louisiana has taken legal action to stop regulatory and law enforcement personnel from confiscating merchandise from hemp sellers all over the state.

Under state law, the ceiling on the amount of THC allowed in hemp items such as edible gummies and beverages is capped at 8 milligrams per serving. However, manufacturers frequently combine several servings into one package.

What's In The Lawsuit?

Filed in Baton Rouge 19th Judicial District Court, the lawsuit argues that all the items produced by 318 LABZ and marketed by STRSW8 Cannabis are lawful according to both state and federal regulations, per Yahoo Life.

The House Health and Welfare Committee recently held two oversight hearings to discuss the Louisiana Department of Health's proposed emergency regulation, which includes changes to product features, such as packaging requirements.

However, the plaintiffs claim the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) began illegally removing products from retailers on Jan. 31, 2023, through "aggressive enforcement" against hemp items, regardless of LDH approval.

"ATC subsequently seized and continues to seize, products from the shelves of distributors, wholesalers, and retailers throughout the state of Louisiana without warning, notification, or justification.”

ATC Commissioner Ernest Legier Jr. said he has not yet received the lawsuit and therefore could not comment on it.

In related news, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards recently promised to clamp down on unregulated THC products. However, new DEA rules may influence his decision.

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Image Credits: AJEL, lindsayfox by Pixabay Edited By Benzinga