On Saturday, the Oregon state legislature passed HB 3000, which is aimed at placing restrictions on hemp products; now, it will go to the governor’s desk and await a signature. 

Rep. Lily Morgan is a chief sponsor of the bill. She says that it will protect minors and communities relating to harmful hemp products containing THC. 

If given final approval from the governor, the bill will immediately prohibit the sale of hemp products that contain THC to minors. It will allow the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLLC) and  Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) to set THC concentration limits for hemp products sold generally. Furthermore, ODA’s regulatory authority will expand under the new measure to include licensing all hemp products’ manufacturers. 

Additionally, the legislation includes provisions to allow ODA to have a state hemp plan to submit to the USDA. This provision will enable ODA to regulate hemp production and manufacturing in Oregon. The measure will also allow them to support the enforcement of illegal cannabis operations. 

“For my community, House Bill 3000 is more than a lifeline,” said Morgan. “For us, it is an opportunity for us to regain control of our community, freeing citizens of fear of safety and deteriorating quality of life.”

According to Morgan, they created the legislation with input from legal growers and law enforcement. With the intention to better protect communities in Southern Oregon. 

Last week Jackson County Sheriff Nathan Sickler said that illegal marijuana/ cannabis operations are booming across Jackson County, and they will need more resources to stop the illegal operations. 

Make sure to check back for more cannabis and hemp-related news.