A new policy report published by the University of Illinois System’s Institute of Government and Public Affairs, written by James A. Swartz and Dana Franceschini, researchers at UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work, sheds light on the explosion of hemp-derived THC products and growing concerns over their safety, legality and impact on public health. The report highlights how these products, which are often just as potent as state-regulated cannabis, are being sold without oversight. Due to loopholes in federal law, hemp-derived THC is widely available in convenience stores, gas stations and online retailers with no age restrictions and little to no quality control.
“This is a public health risk,” said Franceschini. “People assume these products are safe because they’re sold legally, but they are unregulated and can contain anything. That’s a serious issue, especially when young people get their hands on them.” “With millions in tax revenue at stake, states are struggling to balance consumer safety, business interests and public health,” said Swartz. “Without action, this market will continue to expand without oversight, leaving consumers at risk.”
