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Council holds Bill 15 after extensive public comment from hemp businesses, veterans and advocates
Summary
After nearly an hour of public comment from hemp business owners, veterans and community members, Saint Louis County Councilmember Lisa Clancy announced she would hold Bill 15, a proposed ban on intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids, for further discussion and possible committee hearings.
A divided but orderly Saint Louis County Council meeting on Aug. 5 ended with Councilmember Lisa Clancy announcing she would hold Bill 15, a proposed ordinance to restrict access to intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids, after extensive public comment from business owners, veterans and other residents.
Supporters of the industry told the council that the proposal would wipe out small, compliant businesses across the county and urged the council to regulate rather than ban. "Regulate us, don't erase us," said Ismail Mac Madhur, a self-described small-business owner in the hemp industry, who said his companies follow federal and state rules, restrict sales to those 21 and older and provide third-party lab results. Several other speakers made similar points, warning of lost jobs and vacant storefronts if the ban proceeds.
Speakers also included veterans and health advocates who described therapeutic uses for CBD and related cannabinoids. "CBD is a very valuable tool in our toolkits," said Will Whisner, executive director of the Grunt Style Foundation, who urged the council to deny the bill and cited veteran reliance on such products. Jeff Koenigs, a professional engineer who consults for manufacturers, asked the council to delay action until regulators and experts can provide more technical context.
Some speakers alleged ethical concerns about how the bill was drafted and who influenced it. Murad Saleh and several business representatives said they would seek judicial relief, including injunctions, if the ordinance moves forward without further review. Councilmember Clancy, who sponsored the ordinance, said she would consider a hearing in a committee of the whole and noted some public statements about the bill were inaccurate and could be clarified in a formal hearing.
The council formally recorded "Bill number 15 is held," meaning no final vote was taken tonight. Councilmembers and members of the public requested a technical, informational committee hearing so experts and both sides can present factual evidence before any final action.
Next steps: Council members discussed hosting a Committee of the Whole or using the Justice, Health and Welfare Committee to accommodate quorum needs and expert testimony. No date was set during the meeting.
