The federal courthouse in Little Rock will hold a hearing this Wednesday in the lawsuit over Arkansas’ ban on Delta-8 THC.
Delta-8 THC is a mind-altering substance made from cannabis, and health experts increasingly warn the drug poses serious risks.
Earlier this year the Arkansas Legislature passed Act 629 of 2023 by Sen. Tyler Dees (R – Siloam Springs) and Rep. Jimmy Gazaway (R – Paragould). This good law prevents Delta-8 THC from being manufactured via industrial hemp — or cannabis — in Arkansas.
The law also places Delta-8, Delta-9, Delta-10 THC, and other psychoactive drugs made from industrial hemp on the list of controlled substances in state law, and it contains language enacting drug restrictions that would take effect if a state or federal court someday blocked Arkansas from prohibiting Delta-8 altogether.
Apart from Act 629, Arkansas has virtually no meaningful restrictions on Delta-8 THC. However, a group of companies that profit from Delta-8 THC are suing to block Act 629 in federal court.
Act 629 of 2023 is a good law that protects Arkansans from dangerous drugs. We believe courts will recognize that fact and ultimately let the state enforce it.
