Missouri Hemp Market Faces Regulatory Challenges

Missouri's hemp market is rapidly expanding, fueled by regulatory gaps in the 2018 Farm Bill, allowing the sale of intoxicating hemp products without state oversight. This has created a parallel market that challenges the regulated marijuana industry, leading to concerns about consumer safety. Local business owners, such as Robert Brooks of Natural Hemp Joplin, support proposed regulations aimed at ensuring product safety, including testing for harmful substances. State officials are exploring necessary regulations, including dosage safety and packaging standards, amidst opposition from the hemp industry. Governor Mike Parson's executive order to ban certain hemp-derived THC products has faced legal challenges, complicating the regulatory landscape. As the debate continues, stakeholders emphasize the importance of safety and proper oversight in this burgeoning market.