Oregon mulls new delta-8 THC limits in response to widespread availability

Oregon is considering new limits on delta-8 THC amid concerns that state regulations don’t adequately address the newly popular cannabinoid.

Members of the Oregon Liquor Control Commission, which regulates the marijuana industry, recently discussed testing requirements and other safety regulations for delta-8 THC sold in dispensaries.

Eleven states currently ban delta-8 THC entirely: Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island and Utah.

The OLCC’s limits would apply only to Oregon’s marijuana program. Most delta-8 THC products are coming from hemp-derived CBD distillate, and the OLCC does not regulate hemp manufacturing.

The Oregon state Legislature is set to discuss broader delta-8 THC limits on Thursday, the OLCC said. Statewide limits could include a requirement that all intoxicating THC products are sold within the OLCC regulated system and a ban on delta-8 THC sales to people under 21.

OLCC Executive Director Steve Marks said in a statement that Oregon wants to make sure delta-8 THC products are tested for safety.

“Unregulated hemp has no final product testing,” Marks said. “They only test for delta-9 in the field. You can’t regulate what you don’t test for.”