Hemp industry observers warn that the DEA’s new “interim final rule” (IFR) “threatens to destroy” the hemp and CBD industries. (Read the rule here.)
CannabisBusiness.Law
As explained by hemp attorney Rod Kight, the issue involves something called work in progress hemp extract (WIPHE). WIPHE is a substance produced during hemp processing which can contain more than the legal limit of 0.3% THC, even if the source plants did not. Though the substance never reaches consumers, the rule defines it as a schedule I controlled substance, and therefore illegal.
- Kight also notes that the IFR threatens the legality of Delta-8 THC, an increasingly popular cannabinoid that does get people high and which can derive from federally legal hemp.
CannabisBusiness.Law - The rule took effect August 21, but the public comment period is open until October 20. Comments can be made here and should reference, “RIN 1117- AB53/ Docket No. DEA-500”
At Canna Law Blog, attorney Daniel Shortt writes, “I’ll let you decide whether the DEA is ignorant or nefarious, but I believe that this is an intentional move by the DEA to maintain its authority over cannabis. To be fair I also think the DEA should be disbanded so maybe I am biased.”
Quick Hits
- Nike released a sneaker made from hemp in the U.K. and retail chain The Vitamin Shoppe is putting new emphasis on CBD products.
Hemp Industry Daily - A zoo in Poland is giving CBD to a mourning elephant.
LiveScience
