In the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska, Kind Life Dispensary has been pioneering the sale of cannabinoid products for the past seven years. The business offers a range of items, from gummies and tinctures to ointments and canned beverages. With three thriving locations in Nebraska’s capital, founder Andrea Watkins has successfully built a client base that spans across hundreds of regulars who rely on these products for relief from various ailments like anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. However, Watkins faces uncertainty as a new legislative bill threatens to outlaw most of the products her stores provide.
The proposed bill in the Nebraska Legislature seeks to criminalize the sale and possession of products containing hemp-based tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the compound in marijuana that causes psychoactive effects. Products surpassing the threshold of 0.3% THC content or having over 10 milligrams of THC per package would be deemed illegal. Watkins expressed her concern, noting that the law’s enactment could force Kind Life to shut down.
The bill could adversely impact over 300 other similar businesses state-wide that have emerged since the 2018 federal farm bill, which allowed hemp production. This legislation inadvertently created a legal loophole facilitating the synthesis of THC from hemp, enabling its sale even where marijuana remains prohibited.
If the law passes, it would even ban topical treatments, such as lotions and creams with THC, sparking criticism that it unfairly targets innocent users like seniors seeking pain relief. During discussions, Omaha Senator Wendy DeBoer cautioned that the bill could inadvertently criminalize elderly citizens using hemp-derived products to ease joint pain.
On the other hand, Republican lawmakers advocating for the bill argue it’s essential to protect public health, particularly children, from potentially dangerous products marketed as hemp yet containing synthetic cannabinoids. They have cited instances of hospitalizations linked to consumption of these items. However, opponents like Dr. Andrea Holmes, an organic chemistry expert and a partner at Kind Life Dispensaries, contest these claims, highlighting the potential therapeutic benefits of the products.
Critics argue the proposed bill is part of a larger Republican campaign, supported by Attorney General Mike Hilgers, to criminalize hemp-based products and stifle marijuana legalization efforts in Nebraska. Despite Nebraska voters recently backing the medical use of marijuana, efforts to expand its legalization face legislative barriers.
Senator John Cavanaugh, seeking a compromise, proposed a regulatory framework similar to models in other states over outright prohibition. His plan, supported by the Nebraska Hemp Industries Association, suggests regulation could prevent lost revenues from further burdening the state, which is already grappling with budget shortfalls. Cavanaugh estimates the hemp industry could bolster the state’s economy by employing over 1,600 people and generating approximately $8 million in tax revenue.
Simultaneously, Attorney General Hilgers has been proactive in cracking down on cannabinoid product retailers, citing public safety concerns. His actions have included cease-and-desist orders and lawsuits targeting shops suspected of misleading the public and selling improperly labeled goods.
Nebraska is not alone in navigating the complexities of regulating cannabinoid products. Various states, including those led by Democrats such as California, have imposed restrictions or bans on hemp-derived products citing health implications. As the debate continues, Nebraskans await the outcome of this contentious legislative battle that could redefine the landscape for hemp-based products in the state.