Governor Parson to hold joint press conference with Attorney General Andrew Bailey to announce actions to address danger posed by unregulated cannabis products
Governor Mike Parson will hold a joint press conference with Attorney General Andrew Bailey tomorrow to address the growing concerns surrounding unregulated cannabis products in Missouri.
The conference is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. at the Missouri State Capitol in the Governor’s Office (Room 216).
Joining Governor Parson and Attorney General Bailey will be Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten, Department of Health and Senior Services Director Paula Nickelson, and Alcohol and Tobacco Control Supervisor Michael Leara. Together, they will outline the state’s actions to mitigate the risks associated with unregulated cannabis products.
Unregulated Products Pose Risks
The press conference comes amid rising concerns about the safety and quality of unregulated cannabis products circulating within the state. Unlike products sold in licensed dispensaries, unregulated cannabis items lack the rigorous testing and oversight required by Missouri law. These products may contain harmful contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and mold, posing significant health risks to consumers.
State Actions to Protect Consumers
Earlier this year, Attorney General Bailey initiated a consumer protection probe into unregulated vape and hemp products. The investigation, launched in response to safety concerns, focused on the legality and safety of various products, particularly those marketed towards children. Reports of adverse health incidents linked to illicit products, both within Missouri and nationally, prompted the probe. Bailey’s office issued civil investigative demands (CIDs) to several businesses, including American Shaman Manufacturing, Inc. and CBD Kratom Connect LLC.
In an April statement, Bailey emphasized the importance of transparency and consumer safety: “Missourians have a right to know exactly what is in the products they consume. This is especially important when potentially dangerous products appear to be marketed directly at children.”
The press conference will detail the actions the state is taking to protect Missourians from the dangers of unregulated cannabis products. These actions aim to ensure consumer safety and uphold the integrity of the state’s cannabis market.
Missouri has seen significant growth in its regulated cannabis market since the legalization of medical marijuana and adult-use cannabis. However, the presence of unregulated products continues to pose challenges that require immediate and coordinated action.
