Michigan Sheriff: Legal Marijuana Reduces Risks from Unregulated Hemp Products
Testimony Before Congress
During a recent hearing of the House Energy & Commerce subcommittee on “Combatting Existing and Emerging Illicit Drug Threats,” Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard testified on the impact of marijuana legalization in Michigan.
Rep. Morgan Griffith (Virginia) raised concerns about unregulated, intoxicating hemp products—particularly delta-8 THC—affecting children in states without legal cannabis frameworks. Sheriff Bouchard responded by highlighting how Michigan’s 2018 legalization of marijuana has led to a decline in such issues.
Fewer Unregulated Products, but New Concerns
Bouchard stated that while unregulated hemp products have become less common in Michigan, new challenges have emerged. The most concerning is the rise in adulterated cannabis products, including those laced with synthetic drugs such as fentanyl.
He emphasized the importance of implementing inspection processes for both hemp and marijuana products to ensure safety.
Children at Risk from Misleading Edibles
Lawmakers expressed concern over the availability of THC-containing edibles, such as gummy bears, which are often mislabeled and can appeal to children. Griffith noted that some CBD-labeled gummies have contained unregulated amounts of THC, leading to incidents of child overdoses—non-lethal, but with potential long-term effects.
Sheriff Bouchard confirmed that Michigan is also facing this issue and is responding with public service announcements and discussions about making edible packaging and design less attractive to kids.
Calls for FDA Regulation
Griffith and Bouchard both agreed that guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is urgently needed. Griffith has previously introduced legislation to create a federal regulatory framework for hemp-derived cannabinoids like CBD and delta-8 THC.
Research Supports Legalization Benefits
Recent studies have shown that delta-8 THC exposures reported to poison control centers are significantly lower in states with legal marijuana markets. Additional research indicates that delta-8 usage and online interest are more prevalent in prohibition states.
This supports Bouchard’s claim that state-regulated cannabis markets are better equipped to handle the risks associated with hemp-derived products.
Conclusion
Sheriff Bouchard’s testimony adds to the growing evidence that legalization and regulation of cannabis can mitigate the dangers posed by unregulated hemp products. As lawmakers continue to debate federal oversight, Michigan’s experience offers a valuable example of how structured cannabis policies can protect public health—especially that of children.