Wondering what cannabis products you're allowed to purchase in The Sunshine State? You may be surprised to know that Delta-9 THC is legal in Florida.
Yes, even without a medical card. How is this possible?
If Delta-9 THC isderived from hemp and does not exceed a 0.3% concentration by dry weight, it is legal to purchase in Florida.
If you want to learn about Delta-9 products and what they have to offer, keep reading. Here we will discuss hemp-derived Delta 9 THC, its legality, and its effects.
How Is Delta 9 THC Legal in Florida?
The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized the production of hemp. All cannabinoids and products derived from hemp, including CBD, Delta-8, and Delta-9 (among others) were made legal on a federal level by this bill as well.
But what about state-level regulations? In 2019,Florida's Hemp Bill SB 1020made all cannabinoid products derived from the hemp plant legal in the state.
As of this writing, there are no limits on the concentration of CBD or Delta-8 within a product. However, the legality of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC does have a limitation. You can legally purchase products containing hemp-derived Delta-9 THC as long as the concentration is at or below 0.3% on a dry weight basis.
With that said, any hemp product used must comply with Florida’s laws and regulations.
Notice: Pending 2024 legislationSB 1698would set limits on the milligrams of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC in certain products and affect the legality of Delta-8 THC in Florida. However, this bill has not gone into effect yet.
These sections ofSB 1020outline Delta-9 legality in Florida:
CS for SB 1020, 2nd Engrossed
Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
Section 1. Section 581.217, Florida Statutes, is created to read:
581.217 State hemp program.—
(1) CREATION AND PURPOSE.-The state hemp program is created within the department to regulate the cultivation of hemp in the state. This section constitutes the state plan for the regulation of the cultivation of hemp for purposes of 7 U.S.C. 41 s. 1639p.
(2) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS.-The Legislature finds that:
(a) Hemp is an agricultural commodity.
(b) Hemp-derived cannabinoids, including, but not limited to, cannabidiol, are not controlled substances or adulterants.
(d) “Hemp” means the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant, including the seeds thereof, and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers thereof, whether growing or not, that has a total delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration that does not exceed 0.3 percent on a dry-weight basis.
What is Delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 THC is a cannabinoid, or compound found in cannabis plants (i.e., hemp and marijuana). Over 100 different cannabinoids can be extracted from the cannabis plants. The most popular constituents of cannabis include:
- Delta-8 THC, or Δ-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol
- Delta-9 THC, orΔ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol
- CBD, orCannabidiol
Again, Delta-9 THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is simply one of the natural compounds that can be found in cannabis plants. While commonly associated with marijuana, Delta-9 THCcan be extracted from hemp in a legally compliant concentration while still delivering the same effects (since its actual chemical formula is the same no matter what plant it is derived from).
At Hometown Hero, we test our products multiple times throughout our manufacturing process to ensure compliance with federal Delta-9 THC limits. Certificates of Analysis, or COAs, are accessible via our website or packaging by scanning the provided QR codes. Our customers can feel confident knowing they are receiving safe and high-quality hemp products.
What Are the Effects of Delta 9 THC?
All cannabinoids are likely to cause some sort of effect on the body when consumed. However, depending on which cannabinoids you consume, the amount you consume, the method of consumption, andyour body's endocannabinoid system, the effects will vary.
Generally speaking, when it comes to taking Delta-9, cannabis enthusiasts have reported the following effects:
- Euphoria
- Laughter
- Relaxation
- Increased appetite
- Calmness
Again- these effects will vary on an individual basis. If you arenew to THCor unfamiliar with how your body processes a particular cannabinoid, we recommend the "low and slow approach." Start with a small serving and wait an hour for the effects to kick in. Then, evaluate how you feel and determine how to proceed from there.
There are also other factors that can affect your experience, such as Delta-9’ssynergy with other cannabinoidsoreven foods.For example,Select Spectrum productscontain a blend of CBD and hemp-derived Delta-9 THC. Coupled together, CBD and Delta-9 are believed to promote a phenomenon known asthe entourage effect.
What’s the Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-9?
While bothDelta-8 and Delta-9are cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, they are not the same. For one, Delta-9 is way more abundant in cannabis plants than Delta-8. Delta-8 is what's known as a "minor cannabinoid."
But the real difference comes down to the science of each of these cannabinoids. Each compound has a distinct structure that will result in a unique set of effects. Interestingly, while Delta-9 and Delta-8 share the same chemical formula, it's arranged in a significantly different way.
Without getting too complicated, Delta-9 has a chemical bond on the ninth carbon chain, while Delta-8 has a chemical bond on the eighth carbon chain. The difference may seem slight here, but it determines how the cannabinoid interacts with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is anetwork of chemical messengers and receptors in the human body. CB1 receptors are a major component of the ECS that is located mostly in the brain. Delta-8 has a weaker binding affinity to CB1 receptors than Delta-9, resulting in "lighter" effects.
For example, Delta-8 may leave you with uplifted feelings and a sense of relaxation. The effects of Delta-9 may feel similar to Delta-8, but more intensified.
The other difference is their legality. As mentioned above, there is currently no federal limit on the concentration of Delta-8 products. However, Delta-9 products cannot exceed a 0.3% concentration of Delta-9 THC.
Can You Buy Delta-9 THC Products in Florida?
Yes, you can legally buyDelta-9 products onlinein Florida! In fact, if you have ever purchased full-spectrum CBD products in The Sunshine State, that means you’ve already bought Delta-9 THC.
While you can buy these products in-store, it may be a challenge. So, it’s common for people to buy Delta-9 products online in Florida using a credit or debit card.
If you are looking into purchasing quality hemp products with free, priority shipping, you can purchase and have hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products delivered to you through our site. We offer legally complianthemp-derived Delta-9 THC gummies, edibles, and more.
Is Delta-9 Safe?
Delta-9 is generally safe. However, after consuming any cannabinoids, you should not operate a vehicle or heavy machinery. Remember that THC affects everyone differently, and while there is no physical danger, some people may feel overwhelmed.
Like anything, moderation is key in experimenting with Delta-9 products. If you happen to take too much, try to relax and find an activity to calm your mind.
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice or reliable statements of the status of any laws. Any information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only, and are not intended to cause you to buy or not buy any of our products. The laws are different state to state and are constantly evolving. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. Please consult an attorney where you live or are shipping to for verification the legal status of products on this website. Click here for ourLegal Disclaimer.
FDA Disclaimer:The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.
