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The Dangers of Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids are Overstated and Exaggerated

Cannabinoids have been shown to offer a range of medical benefits, such as pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-anxiety effects. For some patients, cannabinoids are a crucial part of their therapeutic regimen, often offering benefits where other medications fail.

Based on their established safety profile, therapeutic potential, historical usage, and the potential for safe production the dangers of cannabinoids, including synthetically derived ones, are overstated compared to other substances.

While it makes sense to regulate, not ban, hemp-derived cannabinoids to ensure consumer safety, the perceived dangers are frequently amplified beyond the evidence. Reasonable regulation, rather than excessive restriction, is the key to managing these products effectively while allowing consumers to benefit from their therapeutic and recreational uses.

Historical Safety Profile: Hemp and its derivatives have been used for centuries with a well-documented safety profile. The World Health Organization has recognized that naturally occurring cannabinoids like CBD have a good safety record. Delta-8 THC is less studied, but it is chemically similar to Delta-9 THC, which has an established safety profile in both recreational and medicinal contexts.

Lack of Severe Adverse Effects: Most adverse effects associated with hemp-derived cannabinoids are mild and temporary, such as dry mouth, dizziness, or mild euphoria. Severe adverse reactions are rare and typically linked to extremely high doses or products contaminated with harmful substances. The risks associated with these cannabinoids are comparable to those of many over-the-counter medications.
Exaggerated Media Reports: Media coverage often sensationalizes incidents involving synthetic cannabinoids, lumping them together with naturally derived cannabinoids. Synthetic cannabinoids, like those found in products such as "Spice" or "K2," are chemically different and can have unpredictable and dangerous effects. These should not be confused with regulated, hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC, which do not pose the same level of risk.

Are Semi-Synthetic Cannabinoids Dangerous?

Cannabinoids, including delta-8 and delta-9 THC, originate from the cannabis plant, which has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. This long history of use suggests a familiarity and, in many cases, a margin of safety when used responsibly.

While high doses or misuse of cannabinoids can lead to negative effects, their safety profile at typical dosages is relatively well-established. Many studies indicate that cannabinoids, including delta-8 and delta-9 THC, are less toxic than other commonly used substances like alcohol and tobacco.

Synthetically derived cannabinoids can be produced safely, just like other synthetic drugs and supplements. When comparing the potential dangers of cannabinoids to other common substances, it is important to consider relative harm. For instance, synthetic cannabinoids, when used responsibly, can be less harmful than excessive consumption of synthetic caffeine, which can lead to significant health issues, including overdose. The risks of synthetic caffeine, such as potential cardiovascular issues, are less frequently discussed despite being more widely consumed.

Synthetic substances like aspirin, caffeine, sucralose, and vitamin C (ascorbic acid), though generally safe, can also cause adverse effects. Aspirin can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers, synthetic caffeine can lead to jitteriness, anxiety, and heart palpitations, and excessive intake of vitamin C can cause kidney stones and gastrointestinal disturbances.

The historical stigma associated with cannabis and cannabinoids often contributes to the perception of higher risk. This stigma is not always based on scientific evidence but rather on sociopolitical factors.

What is the Economic Impact?

The economic impact of is regulation cannot be understated. The U.S. cannabinoids market, including hemp-derived cannabinoids, was valued at $22.23 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $60.36 billion by 2030 (Grand View Research). In contrast, the U.S. marijuana market was valued at $15.8 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow to $40.1 billion by 2030 (Grand View Research). This rapid growth in the hemp market underscores the significant economic potential that would be stifled by overregulation.

Small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy, would bear the brunt of these new rules. These businesses often operate on limited resources and would find it exceedingly difficult to navigate the labyrinth of new compliance requirements. The cost of compliance would skyrocket, diverting funds away from growth, innovation, and job creation. Many businesses would be forced to close their doors, resulting in significant job losses and economic downturns.

Moreover, the proposed bills threaten to remove the majority of hemp products from the shelves, further crippling the industry. This would not only lead to reduced consumer spending and decreased tax revenues but also slow down overall economic growth. Illinois cannot afford to lose the economic momentum generated by the hemp industry, which has created thousands of jobs and contributed to the state's financial well-being.

It is essential to recognize that effective regulation does not necessitate hyper-regulation. A reasonable framework can ensure consumer safety while fostering economic growth. The industry agrees on three key points: ensuring the accuracy of potency, setting standards for packaging and labeling, and requiring age verification for the purchase of hemp products. These measures can be achieved through reasonable regulation, which has already been proposed and is widely supported by the industry.

A balanced regulatory framework that addresses safety concerns without imposing undue burdens on businesses is the way forward. It is imperative to oppose HB4293 to protect the future of the hemp industry in Illinois.