In a revelation that raises both concerns and eyebrows, Steep Hill, Mississippi’s first licensed medical marijuana testing laboratory, recently analyzed over-the-counter cannabis products and discovered that some contain levels of THC significantly above the federal limit. These findings are particularly noteworthy due to the legal status of cannabis in Mississippi, where recreational use remains illegal.
This news emerged after scientists at Steep Hill tested products available in Rankin County, finding concentrations of THC—30 to 40 times higher than the 0.3% threshold set by the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and hemp-derived substances on a federal level. This surprising discovery is a clear deviation from what is legally permissible and puts a spotlight on regulatory gaps in the burgeoning industry.
Cliff Osbon, president and co-founder of Steep Hill, expressed his surprise at the findings. In his statement to MPB, Osbon mentioned, “This is a lot higher levels than we expected.” Concerns were further compounded by the presence of pesticides in these products, with some containing 20 times the allowed level for medical marijuana. The tested items included a variety of products, such as pre-rolls, vapes, and edible gummies.
The safety and legality of these products are now in question. Osbon, concerned about the potential risks to consumers, chose not to disclose specific brands, product names, or store locations. He emphasized, “We in no way want to encourage anyone who sees this information to go out and access those products because of their questionable safety.” The implication is clear: without proper oversight and testing, consumers may unknowingly be exposed to harmful substances.
Kelly Williams, the founder and CEO of the medical marijuana dispensary Kelly’s Green, located in the same county, also weighed in. At a recent press conference, Williams voiced her alarm, stressing that such findings could undermine patient trust in medical marijuana programs and the efforts of those who support it. She also highlighted the disquieting reality that these products lack age restrictions—a significant oversight in protecting minors.
In response to these unsettling revelations, Rep. Lee Yancey (R), chair of the House Drug Policy Committee, along with Sen. Kevin Blackwell, who has been instrumental in drafting medical marijuana legislation, anticipates introducing a bill to regulate or possibly prohibit these over-the-counter products. Yancey’s proposed bill aims to mandate rigorous testing to ensure the absence of pesticides and excessive THC levels, underscoring the right of the public to safe consumer products.
Yancey’s stance is firm and proactive: “This is just a wake-up call for all of us. These findings confirm that illegal activities are taking place. There are people selling drugs to minors in gas stations across our state, and we’re going to do something about it.”
The situation unfolding in Mississippi mirrors a larger national dialogue about the regulation of cannabis products and the challenges of ensuring compliance with federal and state laws. While this sector of the economy continues to grow, the need for standardized testing and enforcement of regulations becomes increasingly apparent to protect consumer safety and maintain the integrity of legal cannabis operations.
As this story develops, we encourage our readers to stay informed and engaged. It is essential to understand the implications of such discoveries, not just for consumers in Mississippi, but for the nationwide conversation on cannabis regulation. What are your thoughts on this issue? Do you believe stricter regulations are necessary to safeguard public health? Share your perspectives with us, and let’s continue this critical dialogue.
In closing, we invite all readers to remain vigilant about the products they choose and to advocate for transparency and safety in the marketplace. By doing so, we can ensure that the evolution of the cannabis industry is responsible, sustainable, and grounded in consumer protection. Stay informed, and let your voice be heard on these pressing issues that impact our communities.
Let’s know about your thoughts in the comments below!
