(IntegrityPress.org) – The state House of Representatives in Connecticut recently voted to restrict or ban edible THC products that are commonly found in convenience stores, gas stations, and vape shops across the state. The bill was overwhelmingly passed with 148-1 votes, including support from several Republicans who oppose the recreational use of marijuana. The lawmakers recognized that products such as synthetic Delta-8 that are widely available in unlicensed stores may contribute to drug abuse among youths. Besides, the confusion among regulators regarding the jurisdiction of unlicensed stores, such as the Department of Consumer Protection, was another issue that the bill aimed to resolve.
Under the proposed legislation, synthetic THC products would be banned, while products that are legally permitted by federal law would be strictly regulated in terms of dosage and size. Although David Rutigliiano, a Republican, was initially opposed to the legalization of marijuana in Connecticut, he believes that the new bill will address public safety concerns and supports the changes. The Senate must now vote on the bill before it becomes law.
The new bill would set new THC limits for products sold in these stores, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and lotions. Chemically synthesized high-THC products would also be removed from non-regulated stores, which has also been a problem in other states. Mike D’Agostino, Republican who helped to draft the bill, stated that the legislation aims to ensure that products with high THC content are only sold in regulated marketplaces, such as dispensaries, where there are specific labelling, per-package, and per-container requirements. The lawmaker also expressed his concern about the poisoning of young children due to the sale of such products in gas stations and other unlicensed outlets, which should only be limited to licensed marijuana sellers and distributors.
If passed by the Senate, the bill will restrict the sale of high-THC products in unlicensed stores and ensure that these products are only available in regulated marketplaces – which reduces the risk of drug abuse and poisoning among youths.
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