Important Update: DHSS to Embargo Unregulated Hemp-derived Products

On August 29, 2024, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (“DHSS”) announced it will begin taking steps to “embargo and condemn” products containing traceable amounts of intoxicating cannabinoids, such as popular “gas station weed” from hemp-derived delta-8 THC.

On August 29, 2024, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (“DHSS”) announced it will begin taking steps to “embargo and condemn” products containing traceable amounts of intoxicating cannabinoids, such as popular “gas station weed” from hemp-derived delta-8 THC. https://health.mo.gov/news/newsitem/uuid/3d99c66c-59b6-4fba-b504-d8bb8e76a3c9/dhss-to-begin-unregulated-psychoactive-cannabis-product-enforcement-efforts

DHSS is set to begin its enforcement on September 1, 2024, stating that even edible products containing less than 0.3% THC, the federal legal limit set by the 2018 Farm Bill, will be prohibited. DHSS listed over a dozen compounds derived from the cannabis sativa plant that would be included in the embargo. This would include both cannabis and hemp. This embargo will not apply to products under the control or purview of the Division of Cannabis Regulation (“DCR”) and sold by licensed establishments.

DHSS’ enforcement of Gov. Mike Parson’s executive order from August 1st, comes at a time where there is legislative uncertainty over the Governor’s order and resistance by Secretary of State, Jay Ashcroft. Gov. Parson’s order seeks to authorize the Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (“ATC”) to act against any licensed liquor establishment selling intoxicating cannabinoid products by directing the ATC to file an emergency rule with Secretary Ashcroft’s office to amend its regulations to prohibit the sale of unregulated psychoactive cannabis products by liquor-licensed facilities. The ATC had previously sought approval of emergency rules but have been rejected by the Secretary’s office. The rejection of the rule filing will have no impact on the effective date of the embargo.

DHSS has created a report form for citizens to use in reporting sightings of unregulated psychoactive cannabis products in retail establishments. DHSS hopes to eradicate the unregulated products and curb the number of admitted children in the state’s hospitals from accidental overdose in 2023, a 600% increase in admissions since 2018.

Please continue to monitor updates from Stock Legal for any further developments regarding the ban of psychoactive cannabinoid derived products in Missouri. Also, feel free to check out this FAQ put together by DHSS.

Related Articles

March 5, 2025
Meet Elliana Garrett! The newest member of Stock Legal!

Hello! I am Elliana Garrett, and I am so excited to begin my role as an administrative assistant at Stock Legal! Although I grew up in the St. Louis area, I took on the great adventure of moving to Irvine, California, for my undergraduate education.

Read more
January 6, 2025
What do Dental Practices Need to be Aware of on an Ongoing Basis?

Most dental practices are unaware of the many, and often unthought of, items that need to be continually addressed for maintenance of the dental entity.

Read more
Ready to get started?

Join the many other businesses who trust Stock Legal.