Mason council endorses state action to regulate intoxicating hemp products

City council voted to adopt a resolution urging state lawmakers to regulate intoxicating hemp products similarly to marijuana, citing public‑health and youth‑access concerns raised at a March rules committee meeting and subsequent briefings.

Eric (city manager) presented the resolution and explained the difference the rules committee identified between state‑regulated marijuana (dispensed under state law) and intoxicating hemp products, such as delta‑8 THC, which in many cases are not subject to the same state licensing, age limits or testing. The rules committee chair (name not specified at the meeting) summarized that staff, legal counsel, law enforcement and the city lobbyist had briefed the committee and that multiple bills were pending at the state level.

The resolution asks the General Assembly to enact provisions that would create a regulatory framework for intoxicating hemp products, including minimum purchase age and controls on retail sale and labeling. Committee members told council they also plan to circulate a letter for other municipalities and residents to sign to press for state action.

Council members who spoke said the city is limited in what it can regulate locally and that a statewide law is the most effective method to address unregulated products. One council member said local options are limited because cities cannot unilaterally criminalize products already allowed under state law.

Council voted to adopt the resolution after suspending the rule to allow immediate adoption; the vote was recorded as affirmative by members present.