AG Tong warns retailers over illegal delta-8 THC sales

Attorney General William Tong is cracking down on retailers selling illegal delta-8 THC products.

Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in hemp and marijuana plants. In Connecticut, any product exceeding 0.3% THC is considered cannabis and is regulated under the Responsible and Equitable Regulation of Adult-Use Cannabis Act.

Tong”™s office sent letters to all Connecticut licensed retailers of electronic vaping products warning them that the sale of cannabis products outside of the regulated market is illegal and may subject sellers to civil and criminal penalties.

“If you offer delta-8 THC products for sale in your establishment that exceed 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis and you do not hold such a license, you are in violation of Connecticut law,” Tong wrote. “The sale of such products may expose you to criminal and civil liability. Please remove any such products from your shelves and dispose of them immediately.”

Tong”™s office sued five Hartford County for alleged violations of the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act over the sale of illegal delta-8 THC products designed to look like popular youth-oriented snacks and candies.

“Cannabis products in Connecticut cannot be sold by unlicensed retailers and must meet rigorous testing and packaging requirements. Period. Any unlicensed Connecticut retailer selling delta-8 THC products that purport to contain high levels of THC is breaking the law and may be subject to both criminal and civil penalties,” Tong added.