logo
#

Latest news with #THCA

Missouri Attorney General threatens legal action against 18 hemp companies; more to come
Missouri Attorney General threatens legal action against 18 hemp companies; more to come

Yahoo

timea day ago

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Missouri Attorney General threatens legal action against 18 hemp companies; more to come

(Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent) Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has sent several cease-and-desist letters to companies selling a hemp product called THCA flower that looks exactly like marijuana flower sold at dispensaries. Bailey's letters threaten legal action, including injunctions, civil penalties and attorney's fees if the companies continue to sell the products. 'When purchasing products, Missourians deserve to know if they are being exposed to dangerous side effects like psychotic episodes, hallucinations or other life-threatening risks,' said Attorney General Bailey in a statement to The Independent. 'We have issued 18 cease and desist letters so far, and more are forthcoming.' Cannabis lobbyist Eapen Thampy said about a dozen smoke shops in St. Louis received the letters, and in some cases, THCA flower makes up 60% to 80% of the companies' inventories. Thampy said he's working with the companies to put together a response to the letters and preparing for potential litigation. The action is the first major move since Bailey created a new specialized unit last fall, with the aim to assist the state's alcohol and tobacco regulators in cracking down on intoxicating hemp products. In September, Bailey vowed his new unit would work with the Missouri Alcohol and Tobacco Control Division to bring legal action against licensees selling unregulated psychoactive cannabis products that violate the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act. 'The ATC will assist by making its investigators available as witnesses for legal proceedings resulting from actionable referrals,' Bailey said in September. 'Our enforcement toolkit will be robust from cease-and-desist letters and investigations to subpoenas and lawsuits to referrals for criminal prosecution where appropriate.' The letters that went out last month state that the companies are 'directed to cease and desist from selling' hemp products that contain more than 0.3% THCA on a dry weight basis. THCA is a naturally abundant cannabinoid that transforms into Delta-9 THC when smoked or heated. However, this is not what an official cease and desist order looks like, said Jefferson City-based attorney Chuck Hatfield. 'It is an informal cease and desist,' Hatfield said. 'It is not a letter that has the force and effect of law. It's more in the nature of a request to stop.' Under state law, if Bailey wanted to issue an official cease and desist order – as he did for Planned Parenthood in March – Hatfield said Bailey would have to issue a notice of intent first. The company would have the right to appeal through an administrative hearing, as well as challenge the order in court. 'But he hasn't done any of that,' Hatfield said. Bailey could also file a lawsuit under Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, and that doesn't require a cease and desist order, he said. Charles Alovisetti, a cannabis attorney with Vincente law firm in Boston, said the lack of a state law to support the action could put Bailey in a tricky spot. 'If the goal is to control THCA flower sales, states should regulate hemp products in their final form, including THCA flower, through clear legislation,' Alovisetti wrote in a LinkedIn post. 'Letters like this may not hold up in court.' For the third year in a row, state lawmakers failed to pass legislation to regulate intoxicating hemp products by the end of the session in May. At issue in Bailey's letters is THCA, which is not intoxicating in its natural state. Most marijuana flower found in dispensaries contains about 20-40% THCA, which would not get a person high if they consumed it without heating it. It has to be smoked to transform it into Delta-9 THC, which produces the desired high for consumers. The process of heating is called decarboxylation. Legal action against THCA hemp flower raises a dizzying debate about distinction between hemp and marijuana under federal law. Cannabis attorney Rod Kight, who has represented hemp businesses in lawsuits nationwide, said Bailey's letter accurately states that the sole distinction between legal hemp and illegal marijuana is the concentration of delta-9 THC, which cannot exceed 0.3% for hemp. The part Bailey gets wrong, Kight said, is claiming that THCA is part of the calculation for determining whether harvested hemp or a hemp product is lawful. 'Given that Missouri law does not address THCA at all, it is clear that the attorney general is relying on recent letters from the DEA in support of its position that the concentration of THCA must be taken into account when determining the legal status of harvested hemp and hemp products,' Kight said. However, he said the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's interpretation has caused a lot of confusion. 'Hemp growers must account for THCA before harvesting their hemp crops,' Kight said. 'Thereafter, the THCA concentration does not matter under federal law or the laws of Missouri and the 'post-decarboxylation' test does not apply to harvested hemp or hemp products sold by wholesalers or retailers.' Since the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp, botanists have figured out how to breed cannabis plants capable of passing the only federal checkpoint required on hemp plants — a visit from U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors 30 days before harvest. At that point, the levels of Delta-9 THC and THCA are below the federal threshold, but both increase before being harvested 30 days later. Kight said he believes there's lots of marijuana flower sold in dispensaries that would probably meet this standard of hemp as well. It's a point that's being argued in court, he said. 'THCA is the most abundant cannabinoid that cannabis produces,' he said. 'If there's any cannabinoid that humans have truly ingested for thousands of years, it's THCA. The hemp industry is moving kind of back towards this more natural sort of state of affairs, and I'm very pleased with that.' SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

This discovery in Cannabis DNA will change how you see weed forever; 33 genetic markers explained
This discovery in Cannabis DNA will change how you see weed forever; 33 genetic markers explained

Time of India

time7 days ago

  • Business
  • Time of India

This discovery in Cannabis DNA will change how you see weed forever; 33 genetic markers explained

Université Laval in Québec has made a significant breakthrough in cannabis research and breeding by identifying 33 genetic markers in marijuana that influence the plant's cannabinoid production . The discovery opens new doors to developing custom cannabis strains for specific medical and recreational purposes. Published in the peer-reviewed journal The Plant Genome , the study could significantly advance the science of cannabis cultivation by allowing breeders to fine-tune the plant's chemical profile with greater precision. The research team studied 174 cannabis samples and used high-density genotyping to analyze over 23,000 molecular markers. From this dataset, they pinpointed 33 specific markers strongly associated with the production of 11 cannabinoids, compounds like THCA, CBDA, and CBN , which are known for their therapeutic and psychoactive properties. Among the most notable findings was a large cluster of genes on one chromosome region that spans approximately 60 megabases. This region was strongly linked to THC-dominant strains of cannabis, confirming the role of specific DNA segments in driving potency levels. Live Events What does this mean for breeders? Historically, cannabis breeding has been a time-consuming process that involved growing plants to maturity, harvesting them, and analyzing their chemical content. This method can take months and is prone to variability. The new genetic markers now provide a reliable way to predict cannabinoid content early in the breeding process. This allows breeders to select plants with the desired genetic traits without waiting for full plant maturity. The process becomes faster, cheaper, and more efficient. 'These markers offer powerful tools for improving cannabis through molecular breeding,' the researchers wrote. 'They help overcome barriers that have limited the development of elite strains due to decades of prohibition and lack of genetic infrastructure.' A boost for medical marijuana This development is particularly promising for the medical cannabis industry. It targets genetic traits responsible for producing non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD and CBG, breeders can create strains tailored for pain relief, inflammation, anxiety, epilepsy, and other conditions, without inducing a high. The ability to develop strains with precise chemical balances can also help standardize dosing, which has long been a challenge in medical marijuana use. Global research momentum This study adds to a growing wave of scientific interest in cannabis. Recently, researchers in South Korea identified a new cannabinoid compound, cannabielsoxa, which has sparked further investigation into the plant's unexplored genetic complexity. As more countries legalize cannabis and invest in research, experts say these kinds of discoveries will become more common and more valuable. The discovery of these 33 genetic markers marks a significant step toward modernizing cannabis cultivation. As genetic tools become more widely adopted, the industry can expect to see faster development of high-quality, purpose-driven cannabis strains. Researchers believe that with continued investment in plant genomics, cannabis could soon join other major crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans in benefiting from cutting-edge breeding techniques.

Clarksville Police searching for burglary suspect
Clarksville Police searching for burglary suspect

Yahoo

time24-05-2025

  • Yahoo

Clarksville Police searching for burglary suspect

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The Clarksville Police Department is searching for a man accused of forcibly entering two smoke shops and taking merchandise. Officials said the man was involved in two separate burglaries, on May 2 and May 23, during which over $4,800 of THCA-based products were stolen. According to CPD the man is bearded and believed to be in his 20s to 30s. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Salazar at (931) 648-0656, ext. 5383, or the Clarksville Montgomery County Crime Stoppers Tipsline at (931) 645-8477. 📲 Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go.📧 Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox.💻 for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Best THCA Flower of May 2025: Newly Launched Strains By Exhale Wellness
Best THCA Flower of May 2025: Newly Launched Strains By Exhale Wellness

Yahoo

time16-05-2025

  • Health
  • Yahoo

Best THCA Flower of May 2025: Newly Launched Strains By Exhale Wellness

Exhale's Newly Launched THCA Flower Strains are hitting the markets in May 2025. Here's a detailed review of top varieties: Snow Caps & Space Junkie! Charlotte, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Two newly launched THCA flower strains from Exhale Wellness are gaining early attention for their potency, quality, and visual appeal, positioning the brand as a leader in the rapidly expanding 2025 hemp market. The constant buzz around these releases highlights consumers' growing interest in effective, full-spectrum THCA products. Unlike other traditional cannabinoids like THC and CBD, THCA offers dual functionality. It can be enjoyed in raw form solely for wellness-focused effects or heated to mimic the psychoactive effects of Delta 9 THC. This flexibility is helping THCA flower carve out a distinct niche among both wellness users and recreational consumers. What is THCA Flower? THCA flowers are hemp flowers containing massive THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) content, usually accompanied by minimal amounts of THC. Owing to high THCA content, which is a non-psychocative hemp compound, THCA flower is considered therapeutic and non-intoxicating when consumed raw. However, the game changes when the flower is baked, as exposure to heat initiates a decarboxylation process that converts THCA into THC, generating fumes and smoke rich in Delta-9 THC, a potent psychoactive cannabis compound. As a result, the effects are more mind-altering and intense than raw flower. Regardless of how it's used, THCA flower is generally considered effective in relieving pain, reducing anxiety, and soothing overall discomfort owing to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Best THCA Flower Strains Launched by Exhale Shopping for top-tier THCA flower online in 2025 comes with more choices than ever, making it tough to tell what's truly worth your time and money. But as of right now, two newly launched strains from Exhale Wellness are getting all the attention: - Snow Caps Strain THCA Flower - Space Junkie These new strains are lab-tested and being consistently praised across social platforms for their potency and smooth effects. Let's break down what's making them shine! #1. - Snow Caps Snow Caps are quickly making waves as one of the freshest exotic THCA flower drops in May 2025, for good reason. Early buzz from the community and customer feedback highlights these trichome-heavy buds for their stunning visual appeal and boosted potency that's already turning their unique composition makes them stand out among the existing strains. The preparation starts with premium THCA hemp flower being plucked from an indoor-grown hemp plant, then coated in pure hemp-derived THCA isolate powder, giving it that signature snow-dusted look and delivering a 10–20% potency boost over standard THCA strains. Fans are already calling it 'frosted' and 'crystal-rich,' with many saying the look alone screams premium quality. Specifications Net Weight: 3.5 grams per jar Cannabinoids: Coated in ultra-pure THCa Diamonds for maximum potency THCA Strength: 40% Potency: 800mg of THCa per jar Compliance: Federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill (contains ≤ 0.3% Delta-9 THC) Hemp Source: Responsibly cultivated from USA-grown hemp Lab Verified: Tested by third-party labs to ensure purity, potency, and safety Visual Profile: Frosted appearance from crystallized THCa coating Strain Lineage: Godfather OG, known for deeply calming, indica-dominant effects Packaging: Sealed in airtight jars to preserve freshness and terpene profile Dosage If you're determined to try it, now's the best time! Consider starting low and going slow, especially given the product's high THCa concentration. Each jar contains 800mg of THCa, so even a small amount can go a long way. Begin with just a small pinch for raw use, such as in smoothies, salads, or herbal teas. If you're smoking or vaping, we recommend starting with a single light bowl or one short vape session to gauge your tolerance. The potency can build quickly, and the Godfather OG strain is known for its deeply relaxing, body-heavy effects. As always, the exact dosage depends on how your body tolerates and responds to the strain. So, after use, allow time (30–60 minutes) to evaluate how you feel before considering increasing or going for the next dose. Pros Works raw, smoked, or in mixed edibles Rich flavor makes it a favorite among seasoned cannabis users Strong supportive effects for those managing long-term stress or soreness Compliant with federal guidelines, easy to buy online Helpful for tension and low mood when decarbed Cons May feel intense for those with low tolerance Accessible only to those aged above 21 years Reviews John D. – Austin, TX: 'Exhale's Godfather OG is my go-to THCA strain for back pain. It works almost instantly—just a few hits and I feel the tension melt away. Easily one of the most relaxing strains I've tried.' Samantha T. – Portland, OR: 'Strong stuff. Definitely better suited for nighttime or when you have nothing on your schedule. One small bowl and I'm completely at ease.' #2. Space Junkie THCa Flower is one of Exhale's newest sativa standouts to hit the scene in May 2025, and it's already making a name for itself among hemp lovers. With buds that look more like something from another galaxy than your typical flower, this freshly launched strain features a bold mix of deep purples and neon lime greens, wrapped in a thick coat of shimmering trichomes that give it a true space-age glow. But Space Junkie isn't just eye candy, it packs a flavorful punch, too, claim may of its first users. They rave about its complex, terpene-rich aroma, with sharp notes of citrus, sweet cream, and a subtle skunky twist. Once lit, it transforms into a zesty combo of grapefruit, tart lemonade, and earthy undertones. Clocking in at over 36% THCa, Space Junkie has broken the glass ceiling one of the most potent new legal hemp strains available under the 2018 Farm Bill, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Specifications Strain: Space Junkie (Sativa) THCA Strength: Above 36% Flavor Profile: Fruity with tropical and spicy notes, hints of Grapefruit and Lemonade Effects: Happy mood, increased energy, clearer focus Ideal Growing: Flexible for indoor or mild outdoor conditions Difficulty to Grow: Easy to moderate, good option for beginners and home growers Subscription Benefits: Save Up to 30% Shipping: Restricted to legal states; free for orders above $80.00 Dosage Willing to give it a try? As a first-time user, we advise you to approach it with mindful moderation. Start with a small amount, roughly a pinch or a single bowl, especially if you're using it during the morning or early afternoon. Inhaled in low doses, this flower tends to support mental clarity, sociability, and motivation, making it ideal for work sessions, creative tasks, or adventures. Some who've already experienced its rich potency have found that slightly larger doses can promote an almost euphoric energy. Pros suggest that due to its stimulating nature, Exhale's Space Junkie can best be enjoyed earlier in the day. Taking higher doses in the late afternoon or evening may interfere with your natural sleep cycle. It's crucial to wait 10–20 minutes after the first dose and evaluate the effects before consuming more. Pros Natural boost without feeling jittery Flavorful, unique strain appreciated by fans of fruity varieties Helps with low energy and getting through big tasks Buy THCA flower online at Exhale with legal compliance Flexible use; offers non-intoxicating and psychoactive options in one flower Cons May feel alert too late in the day Fruity flavors aren't everyone's first choice Reviews Emily A., Portland, OR: 'Nothing gets me feeling sharp in the morning like Space Junkie THCA strain. It's light on the body but keeps my focus dialed in. A great pick-me-up when coffee just doesn't cut it.' Marc L., Atlanta, GA: 'Good overall experience, especially for staying motivated during the day. The sweet citrus aftertaste isn't totally my thing, but the uplifting effects make up for it. I'd recommend it for light daytime use.' Benefits of Consuming the Best THCa Flower These days, the best THCa flower is praised not just for its potency or flavor, but also for its potential wellness perks. Here are some of its most talked-about advantages out there: Promotes relaxation and stress relief: Top-tier THCa flower is often praised for its calming effects, especially when heated. Users report feeling more mentally at ease, making it a popular choice for winding down after a long day or managing general anxiety. It may support a mellow state without heavy sedation. May help with pain management: THCa is non-psychoactive in its raw form, but may offer relief when decarboxylated. Many users turn to it for support with chronic pain, joint stiffness, and muscle tension. This makes THCa flower a preferred option for natural, plant-based pain management routines. Supports better sleep quality: Certain THCa strains may help promote restful sleep when taken in moderate evening doses. Users often experience easier sleep onset and fewer nighttime interruptions. The physical relaxation paired with mild mental calmness can create the right environment for deep rest. Enhances mood and overall well-being: Uplifting sativa-dominant strains are especially noted for boosting mood. Many users report feeling more positive, alert, and motivated after consumption. THCa flower may help improve emotional balance without overwhelming psychoactive effects, whether used in social settings or solo. Things to keep in Mind before having your Best THCA flower Before adding THCa flower to your routine, you must make informed decisions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. From proper storage to legal awareness and dosage control, these tips offered by modern cannbis users can help you get the most out of your THCa use: Start with a low dose, especially if you're a beginnerTHCa flower can have strong effects when heated, so new users should begin with a small amount. Starting low allows you to gauge your body's response and avoid overwhelming sensations. Gradually increasing your dosage helps ensure a balanced and comfortable experience. Understand the difference between raw and heated (decarbed) THCaRaw THCa is non-psychoactive and often used for its potential anti-inflammatory and wellness benefits. Heating it through smoking, vaping, or baking activates THC, leading to more noticeable effects. Knowing how you plan to consume THCa helps you predict its impact more accurately. Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding THCa productsLaws around THCa vary across states and can change frequently. While federally legal under the Farm Bill, some states restrict or ban THCa flower. Always check your local and state regulations to stay compliant and avoid legal trouble when purchasing or using THCa products. Choose high-quality, organically grown flowersThe purity and potency of THCa flower depend on how it's grown and processed. Look for lab-tested, organically cultivated strains from reputable sources. Quality flowers not only taste and smell better, but also minimize your exposure to harmful pesticides or contaminants. Consider possible interactions with medicationsTHCa may affect how your body processes certain medications, especially those for blood pressure, mood, or immune response. If you take prescription drugs regularly, talk to your doctor first. Being cautious helps prevent unwanted side effects or reduced effectiveness of your medication. Store the flower in a cool, dry place to preserve potencyHeat, light, and moisture can degrade the cannabinoids and terpenes in THCa flower over time. Keep your jar sealed in a dark, cool spot to maintain freshness and effectiveness. Proper storage also prevents mold and extends the shelf life of your flowers. Consult a healthcare professional if you have health conditionsIf you have underlying conditions like heart disease, mental health concerns, or immune disorders, it's best to consult a medical professional before using THCa. They can offer personalized advice based on your health history. How to Choose the Best THCa Flower? When selecting the best THCa flower for use in May 2025, you need to consider several essential factors that help ensure you're getting a premium, safe, and effective product. Below are key aspects to keep in mind when making your choice: Third-party lab-tested productsThird-party lab testing is one of the most reliable indicators of quality when choosing THCa flower. Independent labs assess the flower for cannabinoid content, ensuring accurate THCa levels. These tests also screen for harmful contaminants like pesticides, molds, and heavy metals that could affect your health. Lab reports, often available on the brand's website, provide transparency and give you confidence that the product is safe, pure, and potent. If a company doesn't provide lab results, it's best to look elsewhere. Hassle-free deliveryThe convenience of delivery plays a significant role in your purchasing experience. A trustworthy brand should offer smooth, hassle-free shipping with transparent policies regarding delivery times and fees. Many brands also provide tracking numbers so you can follow your order from shipment to arrival. Ensuring that the flower is packaged securely and delivered quickly means you receive your product in perfect condition, without unnecessary delays, and can enjoy your THCa flower without worry. Potency of the productsPotency refers to the concentration of THCa in the flower, and it's one of the most critical factors to consider. Potency affects the strength of the effects you'll experience. High-potency flowers, which typically contain a higher percentage of THCa, may deliver more intense effects, both physically and mentally, than those with lower concentrations. Depending on your tolerance and goals, you'll want to choose a product with the right level of potency to achieve your desired results, whether you're seeking subtle relief or more robust effects. Non-GMONon-GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) flowers are those grown without the use of genetic engineering. Non-GMO products are typically grown in more natural conditions, ensuring the plants retain their authentic genetic profiles. Many consumers prefer non-GMO flowers because they align with sustainable farming practices and a healthier approach to cannabis cultivation. Additionally, non-GMO flowers are less likely to have undergone artificial modifications that could compromise their quality or safety, offering peace of mind to those who prioritize organic or eco-conscious choices. Customer SatisfactionCustomer reviews and ratings offer invaluable insight into a product's real-world quality. A brand that consistently delivers a high level of customer satisfaction will likely have positive reviews across multiple platforms. Look for feedback regarding the flower's effects, taste, aroma, and overall experience. If many customers report similar positive experiences, it's a good indicator that the product is reliable. Companies that prioritize customer satisfaction also tend to have responsive support teams and offer guarantees or return policies, enhancing your trust in the brand. FAQs on the Best THCa Flower Does THCa flower get you high?THCa flower itself does not produce a psychoactive effect because THCa is non-intoxicating in its raw form. However, when heated (e.g., through smoking or vaping), THCa converts to THC, which can lead to a high. So, the raw flower won't get you high, but decarbing it will. How do you use THCa flowers?THCa flowers can be used in a variety of ways. You can consume them raw, typically by adding them to smoothies or teas, for a non-psychoactive effect. Alternatively, when vaporized or smoked, the THCa converts to THC, offering a more potent, euphoric experience with its energetic and uplifting effects. Can I fail a drug test using THCa flower?It's unlikely to fail a drug test from using raw THCa flower because it contains very little to no Delta-9 THC. However, if you decarb the flower (by smoking or vaping it), the THCa will convert to THC, which could show up on a drug test, depending on the amount consumed. How should I store THCa flower?Store THCa flower in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve its potency. Using an airtight container, such as a glass jar, is ideal. Proper storage prevents degradation of cannabinoids and ensures the flower remains fresh and effective for a longer period. How is THCa flower different from regular THC flower?THCa flower is the raw, non-psychoactive version of THC flower. It contains tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCa), which doesn't produce a high. When heated, THCa converts into THC, the compound responsible for the euphoric effects. Regular THC flower, on the other hand, already has THC and is psychoactive. Is THCa flower safe?THCa flower is generally safe to consume, especially when sourced from reputable growers and third-party lab-tested for quality. It is non-psychoactive when used raw, making it a safer option for those who seek therapeutic effects without the high. However, it's important to be mindful of personal health conditions and consult a doctor if unsure. How do I choose the best THCa flower?To choose the best THCa flower, prioritize products that are third-party lab-tested for quality, potency, and purity. Look for flowers grown organically without pesticides, and check for customer reviews for insights on flavor and effectiveness. Also, ensure that the flower complies with legal regulations and is sourced from trusted, transparent brands. What's the Best Place to Buy THCa Flower From? As per 10K+ customers, Exhale Wellness is the best place to buy THCa flower online in May 2025. Their newly launched lineup offers organically grown, non-GMO products thoroughly lab-tested for purity and quality. Plus, their new and existing customers unanimously appreciate their seamless shopping experience with fast, reliable delivery and responsive customer support, ensuring customer satisfaction at every stage. CONTACT: Company Name: Exhale Wellness Website: Contact Person: Exhale Wellness Support Team Email: support@ Contact Number: (323) 448-3810 Country: United States

‘It doesn't make sense': TN hemp stores face uncertain future following near-ban on THCA
‘It doesn't make sense': TN hemp stores face uncertain future following near-ban on THCA

Yahoo

time15-05-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

‘It doesn't make sense': TN hemp stores face uncertain future following near-ban on THCA

KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) – The Tennessee legislature dealt a crushing blow to hemp stores across the state after moving forward with a bill that would ban hemp products that contain more than 0.3% THCA. THCA turns into an intoxicant when burned. Adam Stallings and Ashton Smyth are business partners who own The Laboratory in Kingsport and several other locations in East Tennessee. Smyth said discussions are already underway to decide how the business can move forward. TOP STORIES: TennCare change would aid Ballad's rural hospitals 'I think we're going to grow more in clothing and artwork and other things like that,' Smyth said. 'In our Johnson City store, we sell some collectible items like trading cards.' Smyth said that they're going to lean into their TCHA drinks, which aren't included in the ban, as an avenue to keep people in the doors. He explained that they've been taking suggestions from customers as to what kinds of products they'd like to see in stores. Nonetheless, Smyth said that not having their top products will have a negative impact. 'We sell a lot of different things that aren't THCA, but at the end of the day, THCA is what gets people in the door,' Smyth said. Smyth and Stallings both lobbied in Nashville to help keep the multi-million-dollar hemp industry in the state. Although that push failed, Stallings said he isn't giving up the fight. CRIME: Unicoi Co. couple charged with aggravated child abuse Stallings is going as far as running for a spot in the Tennessee House of Representatives. 'We have to get people that are in there that are going to be a serious voice, that are going to listen to the people and be that voice for the people that will vote for the will of the people,' Stallings said. The future is unclear in Tennessee for The Laboratory and other stores that sell hemp products. Smyth said that tough conversations are in the future. One of those conversations surrounds whether to stay in Tennessee. 'This is where we want to grow and continue trying to put the effort here in the state,' Smyth said. 'Now, with how everything's going, we've really had to consider moving out of this state.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store