The Connecticut House of Representatives recently approved a bill that imposes stricter penalties on unlicensed cannabis sellers, enhances the authority of local officials to seize illegal products, and establishes a Cannabis Hemp Enforcement Task Force to address industry and public health concerns. The legislation also permits growers to operate beyond Disproportionately Impacted Areas (DIA) and includes reforms such as increasing the THC potency limit for cannabis flower and relaxing pharmacist consultation requirements .
Attorney General William Tong has been at the forefront of enforcement efforts, leading multi-agency raids on smoke shops across the state. In December 2024, a coordinated operation in Stamford resulted in the seizure of over 135 pounds of illegal cannabis products from eight shops, including items packaged to resemble children’s snacks. These raids uncovered violations ranging from illegal drug sales to labor and tax infractions .
Similar enforcement actions have taken place in Norwalk, where police raided multiple smoke shops found to be selling high-THC products without proper licensing. Investigations revealed that some shops were selling cannabis directly over the counter, often without age verification, leading to arrests and the confiscation of illegal products .
State officials emphasize the importance of purchasing cannabis products through licensed retailers to ensure safety and compliance with rigorous testing and packaging standards. Unregulated products often lack proper labeling and can pose significant health risks, particularly to minors. The recent legislative measures and enforcement actions reflect Connecticut’s commitment to curbing illegal cannabis sales and supporting the integrity of its legal cannabis industry.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
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