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Kirkwood city officials have moved to restrict the sale of certain hemp-derived products to minors, responding to concerns that recently led the Missouri governor to issue an outright ban.
Hemp is similar to the closely-related cannabis (marijuana) plant, but contains lower concentrations of the psychoactive compound called THC. In 2018, the Missouri legislature repealed a long-standing total ban on hemp products, allowing for some commercial cultivation of hemp. However, some hemp-derived products can contain intoxicants, as well as cannabidiol (CBD), which has been marketed as a dietary supplement or health product.
In an ordinance unanimously passed by the city council on Oct. 3, the sale of certain hemp-derived products to persons younger than 21 years of age is now considered unlawful.
“The city of Kirkwood finds it necessary to enact regulations related to the sale of intoxicating cannabinoids found in hemp-derived products to protect the general public health, safety and welfare, and specifically to protect those under the age of 21,” the ordinance reads in part.
Members of the city council say they were motivated to act immediately, even as the matter of hemp-derived products remains in limbo in Missouri.
“I know the state of Missouri has looked at this issue and hasn’t enacted any legislation, so I think that our city is poised to go ahead and be proactive,” Kirkwood Mayor Liz Gibbons said.
The Kirkwood Police Department will now work with vendors to ensure those under the age of 21 will not be sold these hemp-derived intoxicants found in products like drinks, candies and vapor products.
“Police officers are going to have to dedicate some time to going into the various establishments and identify those products that contain these kind of hemp ingredients,” Kirkwood City Attorney John Hessel said.
Concerns about the marketing of hemp products that appeal to children and minors, such as energy drinks and candies, was one factor in Missouri Gov. Mike Parson’s Aug. 1 executive order banning the sale of such products.
The governor’s order was countered by a September legal challenge from hemp producers who claim the order is too broad, and the matter of hemp-product regulations remains unsettled at the state level.
”}]] Kirkwood city officials have moved to restrict the sale of certain hemp-derived products to minors, responding to concerns that recently led the Missouri governor to issue an outright ban. Read More