The Missouri Attorney General’s Office announced Thursday that officials have sent cease and desist letters to 33 retailers in the state who are suspected of selling cannabis products, or products marketed as cannabis, without a license.

Attorney General Catherine L. Hanaway asked the businesses to stop selling the products, labeling them “counterfeit” and “in violation of the Missouri Trade Practices Act.” The cease and desist letters also require businesses to stop using packaging that is “deceptive” or appealing to children and to stop retail strategies designed to confuse consumers.

The Attorney General’s Office noted that laboratory testing on some of the products revealed lead, arsenic, mercury, ethanol (and other solvents) and pesticides.

“These unlicensed distributors are peddling dangerous, fraudulent and intoxicating cannabis and marijuana products. A storefront and a sales counter do not magically transform an illegal drug operation into a legitimate business. My office is prepared to use the full extent of our authority to hold bad actors accountable.” – AG Hanaway, in a press release

Hanaway’s order included 18 stores in the St. Louis area. Louis, as well as 13 in Kansas City and 2 in Springfield.

The South Carolina Senate last week voted to approve new restrictions on consumable hemp products, WOW reports.

the proposal, H.3924originated in the House of Representatives, but state senators have added some changes this session and finally passed the bill 35-4 on third reading.

Currently, the proposed framework closely resembles state alcohol regulations, allowing the sale of 12-ounce drinks containing between 1 and 5 milligrams of THC in grocery and convenience stores. Liquor stores will be allowed to sell larger and stronger drinks, as well as hemp-infused rubber products. The sale of hemp to individuals under the age of 21 would be banned.

Lawmakers also amended the bill to allow THC consumption in the country with “the most conservative law in the country,” according to supporters. The rules include a two-drink cap on THC-infused drinks within 24 hours, the report said, and patrons will not be allowed to order alcohol and cannabis at the same function.

If the rules are approved, retailers will be allowed to continue selling their current stock of hemp products until November 12, 2026, which is when new federal legislation to ban THC hemp products takes effect. set to enter into force.

Lawmakers also added a provision to ban sales of intoxicating hemp products on Sunday, mirroring state alcohol regulations.

The amended bill now returns to the House for consideration.