Nebraska attorney general targets Omaha Delta-8 sellers in push to ban products

LINCOLN -- The Nebraska Attorney General's Office is taking action against over 100 retailers in the Omaha area, ordering them to stop selling Delta-8 products deemed to be mislabeled or containing excessive levels of THC. Attorney General Mike Hilgers announced that these stores will receive notification letters with a 30-day compliance deadline before potential lawsuits, fines, or threats to their tobacco licenses may occur.

A probe by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office revealed that every store surveyed exhibited issues related to product labeling or contained high concentrations of THC. Hilgers noted that some products labeled as hemp were, in fact, marijuana, underscoring the deceptive and unsafe practices some retailers are engaging in, which is also considered illegal. Hilgers emphasized the need for proper regulations to protect consumers.

Joe Fraas, the president of the Nebraska Healthy Alternatives Association, contested Hilgers' portrayal of retailers as operating unlawfully. He advocated for regulation, acknowledging that a lack of guidelines has led to confusion in the market. He asserted that clearer rules would encourage compliance among sellers, with enforcement measures for non-compliance.

Legislative measures are in play as well, with bills proposed to either ban Delta-8 or impose regulations on its sale, such as age restrictions and licensing requirements. Although neither bill has moved to full legislative debate, policymakers like State Sen. Kathleen Kauth are rallying support for action against Delta-8 products. Hilgers indicated that if a statewide ban is enacted, he would adjust his enforcement approach accordingly.

Concerns about consumer safety were voiced by law enforcement, particularly regarding the higher and unpredictable dosages of THC in Delta-8 products, which some claim can lead to dangerous health effects. While Hilgers aims to extend enforcement across Nebraska, Fraas argued that responsible regulations could mitigate risks without an outright ban.