Arkansas regulators have seized about 6,000 illegal hemp-derived THC products since mid-July, following a federal appeals court decision that upheld the state’s ban on intoxicating substances made from industrial hemp.
The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration’s Regulatory Division has led the crackdown, resulting in two felony arrests and multiple misdemeanor citations.
Agents began enforcement in mid-July after a statewide outreach effort from June 25 to July 14, during which they visited more than 2,800 retailers. Store owners were notified of the ruling, told to remove the products, and given letters outlining penalties for violations.
“I am proud of our Regulatory Enforcement Agents for their around-the-clock work to remove these illegal and dangerous products from stores in Arkansas,” DFA Secretary Jim Hudson said. “Their work protects all Arkansans, especially our children.”
David Potter, director of regulatory enforcement, said most businesses have complied but a few continue to sell the banned products. He noted that many seized items — including gummies, vape cartridges and THC-infused drinks — were produced in foreign labs and packaged to resemble candy, snacks or sodas, posing risks to youth.
Arkansas law prohibits both the sale and possession of hemp-derived THC products. The DFA has more than 30 enforcement agents across the state.
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ every weekday morning and afternoon. White River Now updates are also aired on weekday mornings on
93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5. Catch CBS News around the top of every hour on 1340 KBTA.
