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Bill to close synthetic‑cannabinoid loophole draws mixed reaction over hemp limits
Summary
House Bill 49 would explicitly include synthesized cannabinoids derived from hemp in Montana's controlled‑substances framework; supporters said the bill cleans up prior language and addresses potent synthetic products, while industry and beverage companies warned a provision on naturally derived hemp THC limits could allow intoxicating hemp products to be sold without regulatory guardrails.
Representative Ron Marshall opened House Bill 49 by saying the bill is narrowly aimed at treating synthesized cannabinoids derived from hemp alongside marijuana cannabinoids in statute. "This bill basically ... is very, very narrow," Marshall said, pointing committee members to the bill's definitions and the core language on page 12 and section 4.
Kristen Barber, administrator of the Cannabis Department at the Department of Revenue, and Kathy Wiegand Palmer (cannabis laboratory program manager, Cannabis Control Division) explained the changes grew from the synthetic advisory council and prior HB 948. Barber said the substitutes clean up language, replace the word "marijuana" with "cannabinoid" in some places and clarify that many…
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