Italian Lower House Bans Hemp Products – AKA ‘Cannabis Light’ – Sparking Controversy And Industry Outrage

The Italian parliament’s lower house voted Thursday to ban the sale and distribution of low-THC hemp flowers and products, often referred to as “cannabis light.” The decision came after a 157 to 109 vote in favor of amending the Security Bill to ban these substances, which have been legal and available in Italy since 2017.

Prohibition Extends To Hemp Derivatives

The new law stipulates a comprehensive prohibition on the import, transfer, processing and distribution of hemp inflorescences, including any semi-processed, dried, or shredded forms, according to EFA News. This extends to products derived from these inflorescences, such as extracts, resins and oils. Contrary to claims by major agricultural federations, the regulation does not entirely outlaw hemp processing but specifically targets its use in any form that could be construed as recreational.

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