Arr, the scurvy regulators of Virginia be bilging the coffers o' hemp businesses with hefty fines!
2023-08-21
Arrr, mateys! The scallywags of Virginia's hemp ventures be facin' fines, aye, thanks to a fresh hemp code set forth to toughen rules fer ye landlubbers when it comes to certain THC goods. Aye, the law be seekin' to keep ye buccaneers in check!
Virginia businesses are facing fines from state regulators for violating laws regarding the sale of certain hemp products. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services began inspections last month to ensure compliance with legislation aimed at ending the sale of intoxicating hemp-derived products. So far, at least seven businesses have received noncompliance letters, with violations stemming from this year's legislation and a 2022 bill that banned the sale of THC products in appealing shapes or mimic trademarked brands. Chesapeake Tobacco & Vape, Paradise Vapes, Discount Tobacco, N2U, Cherry Hill Tobacco & Vape, Tobacco World, and Skyline Cigars & Vapes are among the stores facing fines.This year's bill was opposed by the hemp industry, claiming it would further complicate Virginia's cannabis laws. However, advocates argue that it enhances consumer safety, citing cases of illness caused by these products, which have become increasingly prevalent across the state and the country. Business owners, like Savana Griffith of The Hemp Spectrum in Virginia Beach, have had to adjust to the new legislation by emptying their shelves, seeking compliant products, and even opening a distribution center in North Carolina for better sourcing. They acknowledge the challenges but have managed to comply with the regulations.
In a statement, Governor Glenn Youngkin's spokesperson stated that the new regulations were working as intended, strengthening consumer safety and regulations surrounding hemp-derived products. While the fines may be a setback for businesses, the aim is to ensure compliance and protect consumers.