Delta-8 THC is federally legal, which means that vendors can sell it with no oversight. However, 14 states have blocked the sale of delta-8 citing a lack of research into its psychoactive effects.
In this article, we will discuss delta-8 THC, its legality, and why some states have banned it.
What is Delta-8 THC and Why is it Gaining Popularity?
Delta-8 THC is a cannabinoid that comes from the cannabis plant. It can come in pill form or it can be consumed through vaporization, or orally in edibles. Most people believe that this drug is much less potent and intense when compared to marijuana.
Traditionally when we think of marijuana, it’s Delta-9 THC that we attribute the feeling of getting high to. And Delta-9 THC is illegal at federal level and in most states.
Delta 8 THC is a less intense, yet still pleasurable, way to experience the benefits of cannabis. For people who use marijuana but whose life could be negatively impacted by being high – such as those who are in in the public eye, or those who do physical work – Delta-8 creates a healthier and safer option while still providing many of the other benefits and healing properties found in cannabis.
People who suffer from high anxiety can try using Delta-8 as a natural medicine for their symptoms. By reducing stress and calming the body, many people report feeling better even just after one use.
It can come as a capsule, edible, or as a vaporizable liquid and can even be bought online. This makes it much easier to procure, and consume when compared to smoking traditional marijuana buds. However, Delta-8 flower is also available for those who prefer to smoke.
Why is Delta-8 federally legal when Delta-9 THC isn’t?
The bill legalizing hemp does not address this substance which makes it legal for vendors to sell it with no oversight.
Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC are chemically very similar; all that separates them is the location of a double bond, found on the eighth carbon in delta-8 THC and the ninth carbon in delta 8. Due to this difference between the two substances, Delta 8 binds with receptors differently than Delta 9 does making it less potent.
Which states have blocked the sale of Delta-8 THC products, and why?
In recent months, 14 states have Blocked the sale of delta-8 citing a lack of research into its psychoactive effects.
The following states have blocked delta-8 sales:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- Montana
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Utah
These states mostly cited caution in the lack of knowledge about the drug and its effects.
However, not all states consider the compound to be a health risk. In May, a piece of legislation that would have banned delta-8 THC in Texas was removed from the bill, allowing delta-8 THC to remain legal in the state.
This means that while Delta-8 is federally legal, it is not available in most states. And while it is available in some states, there is no oversight on how it can be sold. This leaves room for vendors to sell delta 8 THC products without any regulation or accountability.
It will be interesting to see how this develops as more research is conducted on delta-8 THC’s psychoactive effects. In the meantime, those living in states where delta-8 is blocked from sale will have to travel to purchase it legally.
Check Delta-8 THC’s legal status in your state
To find out whether delta-8 THC is legal in your state, please refer to the following link:
This will give you a complete overview of which states have blocked delta 8 THC and why it’s been blocked in these states.
Looking Forward at Delta 8 THC’s Legality
Delta-8 THC is federally legal but not available for sale in many states. In the meantime, those living in states where delta-8 is blocked from sale will have to travel to purchase it legally.
It will be interesting to see how this develops as more research is conducted on Delta 8’s psychoactive effects and whether or not these states’ bans are lifted after further evidence of its safety becomes clear.
What’s clear is that there is a huge demand for Delta-8 THC and that those who want it will likely find a way to get it, regardless of where they live.
