Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid derived from hemp that has psychoactive effects similar to Delta 9 THC, the main compound in marijuana. However, the legal status of Delta 8 THC is unclear and varies from state to state. But is Delta 8 legal in Arkansas? The short answer is yes, Delta-8 THC is legal in the state of Arkansas.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is found in very low concentrations in the cannabis plant, so it is usually extracted from hemp, which is legally defined as cannabis with less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC. Delta 8 THC can also be synthesized from CBD, another cannabinoid found in hemp that has no psychoactive effects.
Delta-8 THC products are marketed as a milder alternative to marijuana, with less anxiety and paranoia and more medical benefits, such as pain relief, anti-nausea, and neuroprotection.
Can you consume Delta 8 THC in Arkansas?
The answer to this question is not straightforward, as the legality of Delta 8 THC in Arkansas is currently under dispute. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and its derivatives are federally legal, as long as they contain no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC.
In April 2023, Arkansas passed a law that banned all hemp-derived THC products, including Delta 8 THC, Delta 10 THC, and THCP. The law stated that any product containing any amount of THC, regardless of its source, is considered a controlled substance and is illegal to possess, sell, or consume in the state. The law also prohibited the use of CBD as a precursor for synthesizing THC products.
However, in September 2023, a federal court ruled that the Arkansas law was unconstitutional and granted an injunction that stopped the state from enforcing it. The court found that the law violated the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the federal government the authority to regulate interstate commerce. The court also found that the law discriminated against out-of-state hemp producers and retailers who were unable to sell their products in Arkansas.
Therefore, as of now, Delta 8 THC is legal to sell and consume in Arkansas, but this may change in the future depending on the outcome of the legal dispute. The state may appeal the court’s decision or amend the law to comply with the federal law.
Can You Travel to Arkansas With Delta-8?
You can travel to Arkansas with Delta-8 THC, as long as it is derived from hemp and contains no more than 0.3% of Delta-9 THC12.
However, you should be aware that Delta-8 THC is currently under legal dispute in Arkansas, and the state may change its regulations in the future. You should also check with your airline if they allow Delta-8 THC products on their flights, and how to store them properly. The TSA does not specifically look for cannabis products, but they may report any suspicious items to law enforcement.
Can You Drive Under the Influence of Delta-8 THC in Arkansas?
No, you cannot drive under the influence of Delta-8 THC in Arkansas or any other state. Driving under the influence is illegal and unsafe in all circumstances, and there may be some additional risks to driving on Delta-8 THC that you are not aware of.
Just because Delta-8 THC is legal does not mean that it is safe to drive on it. Delta-8 THC can impair your judgment, reaction time, coordination, and motor skills, just like Delta-9 THC. It can also cause drowsiness, confusion, anxiety, and paranoia, depending on the dose and the individual. These effects can increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road.
The best way to avoid these risks is to avoid driving after consuming Delta-8 THC or any other cannabis product. You should wait at least six hours after using Delta-8 THC before getting behind the wheel, or longer if you still feel impaired. You should also avoid mixing Delta-8 THC with alcohol, prescription drugs, or other substances that can affect your driving ability.
Is There Age Restriction for Using Delta-8 in Arkansas?
There are currently no age restrictions for using Delta-8 THC products in Arkansas, although stores generally only sell to adults aged 21 or over12. However, you should be aware that Delta-8 THC is currently under legal dispute in Arkansas, and the state may change its regulations in the future.
Where to Buy Delta-8 THC in Arkansas
There are numerous places to get Delta-8 THC in Arkansas, including local smoke bars. However, as the matter is still in a legal dispute, you may not get high-quality products just by walking around the streets.
If you want to get high-quality and lab-tested Delta-8 products, you can always rely on Elyxr. This online delivery service for all Delta-8 products offers you convenience and peace of mind as you seek to satisfy your needs.