Los Angeles, CA – [October 17] – Ian Rassman, Founder and CEO of Rassman Payments, is excited to share critical updates on California’s newly enacted emergency regulations regarding hemp THCA products. These regulations, designed to protect children and consumers from potentially harmful THC-containing hemp products, represent a significant shift for retailers, manufacturers, and consumers in the hemp and cannabis space.
Announced by Governor Gavin Newsom in September 2024, the new regulations ban the retail sale of hemp-derived food, beverage, and dietary hemp thca products. This change follows an increase in health incidents linked to intoxicating hemp products, particularly involving children and teens. As the hemp industry continues to evolve, businesses must adapt to these new standards to remain compliant with state law.
Key Points from Ian Rassman on the New Hemp THCA Regulations:
- Ban on Hemp THC Products:
“Effective immediately, retailers must remove any hemp products that contain detectable levels of THC or other intoxicating cannabinoids from their shelves,” said Rassman. “These products are no longer lawful for sale in California if they are intended for human consumption, and businesses must take swift action to comply.” - New Safeguards for Children and Teens:
The emergency regulations, proposed by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), were designed in response to rising concerns about the impact of intoxicating hemp products on youth. Rassman emphasizes the importance of protecting younger populations, noting that, “Studies show that THC can impair cognitive functions, memory, and decision-making abilities, particularly in developing brains. These regulations are essential for ensuring the safety of children and teens.” - Product Restrictions and Packaging Limits:
Under the new rules, sales of any hemp thca products are limited to individuals aged 21 and over. Additionally, hemp-derived food, beverage, and dietary products must limit servings to a maximum of five per package. According to Rassman, “These packaging restrictions are an important step in reducing the risk of overconsumption, especially among more vulnerable consumers.” - What the Regulations Do Not Impact:
“It’s crucial for businesses and consumers to understand that these regulations don’t apply to all hemp or cannabis products,” Rassman stated. “Hemp-derived CBD products with no detectable THC or other intoxicating cannabinoids can still be sold. Additionally, the sale of cannabis products, including those with both CBD and THC, will continue at licensed dispensaries, where proper safeguards and testing are in place.”
Why These Hemp THCA Regulations Matter:
California has been a pioneer in cannabis regulation, beginning with the legalization of medical cannabis in 1996, followed by the approval of recreational use in 2016. However, the lack of strict oversight for intoxicating hemp products allowed manufacturers to exploit the system, producing hemp products with THC that lacked the safeguards of cannabis products.
“These new regulations close that loophole,” explained Rassman. “By banning THC-containing hemp products from general retailers, the state is ensuring consumers are protected, and that children are not exposed to potentially dangerous intoxicating substances without proper regulatory oversight.”
How Rassman Payments Can Support Businesses During This Transition:
As California enforces these emergency regulations, businesses must quickly adapt to avoid penalties and maintain compliance. Rassman Payments, a leader in payment processing for high-risk industries like hemp and cannabis, is ready to assist businesses in navigating these regulatory changes.
“With our expertise in the high-risk market, Rassman Payments can provide the secure and compliant payment processing solutions that businesses need in light of these new regulations,” Rassman shared. “Whether you’re removing banned products from your shelves or looking to expand your inventory of compliant products, we’re here to support you every step of the way.”
For more information on how Rassman Payments can help your business remain compliant with California’s hemp THCA regulations, visit www.Rassman.com or reach out using the information below.
