California has seen remarkable compliance with its regulations banning the sale of hemp products containing intoxicating substances. Governor Gavin Newsom lauded the near-universal adherence from businesses, as reported by official communications. "We are doing our part to ensure intoxicating hemp products are out of the reach of vulnerable groups like children. We must always put the safety of Californians first," Governor Newsom stated.
Following a surge of inspections where the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) removed thousands of illegal items from various businesses, ABC Chief Deputy Director Frank Robles confirmed a 99.7% compliance rate among licensees. According to the Governor's office, since the emergency regulations took effect in September 2024, out of 11,445 businesses surveyed, only 148 were found with illicit products. "On the few occasions when ABC agents found items during inspections, they’ve ensured these harmful products are removed from shelves," Robles explained.
This proactive stance stems from a pressing need to keep intoxicating hemp products, which could potentially mimic the effects of higher-THC cannabis, from being used by minors. Last October saw a court upheld these emergency regulations, denying an attempt to stop the state's enforcement actions that safeguard public health. Businesses that neglect the rules risk serious repercussions, including criminal charges and license revocation, and ABC agents continue their rounds to maintain compliance.
These regulations came about due to the rise of hemp-derived products containing THC and the lack of regulatory oversight akin to what is in place for cannabis goods. This gap in the system allowed manufacturers to exploit legal loopholes and sell intoxicating hemp products without the necessary consumer protections. The statewide enforcement of these rules is a collaborative effort managed by multiple agencies, as highlighted by the Governor's statement, including ABC, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the Department of Cannabis Control, and the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.
