Missouri launches taskforce to tackle unregulated cannabis products

Missouri's Governor Mike Parson and Attorney General Andrew Bailey have initiated a crackdown on unregulated psychoactive cannabis products, following similar actions in California. This effort is part of a joint task force formed between the Attorney General's Office and the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, aimed at addressing the deceptive marketing of these products, particularly those targeting children. Governor Parson emphasized the need to protect children from harmful cannabis products, which have been linked to a rise in poisoning cases among minors. The task force will investigate licensees selling unregulated products, collect evidence of misleading marketing, and refer cases for further action. The Attorney General's Office will establish a specialized unit within its Consumer Protection division to handle these referrals. This initiative is a response to growing concerns about the safety of cannabis products in the state and aims to create a regulatory framework for the industry. The crackdown has faced backlash from industry leaders and organizations like the Missouri Hemp Trade Association, who argue that such regulations could harm small businesses and limit consumer access to safe, legal products. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has also been active in embargoing unregulated psychoactive cannabis food products that do not comply with state and federal standards, with nearly 9,000 products embargoed to date. As Missouri implements these measures, the hemp industry is bracing for significant changes, with enforcement actions expected to reshape the regulatory landscape. The situation reflects a broader trend of increasing scrutiny on cannabis products across the United States, as states grapple with balancing public safety and industry growth.