ABC continues illegal hemp seizures, makes numbers available to public online

The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has posted updated statistics regarding its efforts to remove illegal hemp products from ABC-licensed locations in California. 

Since California Department of Public Health (CDPH) regulations were published in September, ABC agents have visited 3,575 locations and seized 5,318 illegal products. The compliance rate among licensees stands at more than 97 percent.

“Each one of these products posed a unique health risk to Californians,” said Joseph McCullough, director of ABC. “Despite the large number of products seized, we are happy to say that our licensees are overwhelmingly in compliance with the new regulation and are doing their part to keep our communities safe from these dangerous products.”

To ensure the public is aware of ABC’s efforts, the department has added an Illegal Hemp Enforcement page to its website. The data is updated each week.

The regulations, which were adopted by CDPH and published by the department on September 24, prohibit the marketing, offering for sale, or sale of industrial hemp products intended for human use (including food, beverages, and dietary supplements) that contain a detectable level of total THC or other intoxicating cannabinoids.

Since September 24, ABC agents have incorporated the search and seizure of illegal hemp products into daily operations, according to McCullough. After weeks of education efforts aimed at helping licensees understand the new regulations to remain in compliance, the numbers reflect a successful effort.

ABC informed licensees that they may not carry, market, or sell products that do not comply with the regulations. Businesses that fail to follow the law could face legal or administrative discipline, including loss of license.

Over the past week ending November 10, ABC agents visited 407 licensed locations. They found 10 locations out of compliance and seized 299 illegal products.

ABC will continue to visit licensed locations throughout the state to enforce the new regulations and ensure illegal products are not being sold. Licensees should be familiar with the new regulations and understand how to comply. More information is available at California Department of Public Health Emergency Regulation Concerning Hemp Products. Anyone interested in filing a complaint concerning illegal hemp products at an ABC-licensed location can visit ABC’s website.

This week’s violations were found in Lake Isabella, West Hollywood, Redlands, Huntington Beach, Palm Springs, Red Bluff, Oakdale, and Stockton.