Impact of New Law on Marshalltown Businesses Offering Hemp Products
Marshalltown businesses are feeling the impact of Gov. Kim Reynolds’ recent signing of House File 2605 (HF2605), which places new restrictions on consumable hemp products. Starting July 1, the law will limit the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in each serving to 4 milligrams and in each container to 10 milligrams.
Owners and managers of affected businesses are questioning the necessity of the law, especially when it comes to protecting children. Tyler Underberg, owner of Pure Releaf, expressed his frustration at the law stripping his store of all its hemp products. His customers, primarily aged 50 to 95, rely on these products for pain relief, anxiety, and sleep.
Similarly, Josh Brown, manager of Marshall Tobacco and Vape Outlet, voiced his concerns about the impact of the law on his business. The store will lose the majority of its hemp products, despite purchasing permits for each item. Brown highlighted the importance of these products for customers with serious medical conditions who prefer cannabis products over pharmaceuticals.
Veteran Christian Banzhaf, who uses hemp products for service-related ailments, emphasized the benefits of these products for individuals seeking natural alternatives to traditional painkillers. Both Brown and Banzhaf questioned the reasoning behind the law, especially since their products are clearly labeled for adults only.
The new restrictions have left business owners like Underberg and Brown facing financial uncertainty. Underberg, in particular, is exploring options to comply with the law by repackaging his products in a food-grade kitchen. Despite the challenges, both owners are urging Iowans to speak out against the law and are considering legal action to challenge its implementation.
As the industry faces an uncertain future, the impact of HF2605 on businesses and consumers remains a contentious issue. The debate over the law’s implications for healthcare and access to alternative treatments continues to unfold, with stakeholders like Underberg and Brown at the forefront of the fight for their businesses and customers.
