Story perspectives

Judge Upholds Alaska Hemp Ban Amid Unregulated Sales

11/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In Alaska, a federal judge upheld Governor Mike Dunleavy's 2023 ban on intoxicating hemp products.
Nevertheless, sales continue in gas stations and stores despite the ruling.
Industry leaders say lax enforcement enables unregulated hemp products to flood the market and undercut licensed marijuana retailers.
Nationally, safety concerns about hemp-derived THC products spur calls for stricter regulations as states weigh the implications of the 2018 Farm Bill.

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Story summary

In Alaska, a federal judge upheld Governor Mike Dunleavy's 2023 ban on intoxicating hemp products.
Nevertheless, sales continue in gas stations and stores despite the ruling.
Industry leaders say lax enforcement enables unregulated hemp products to flood the market and undercut licensed marijuana retailers.
Nationally, safety concerns about hemp-derived THC products spur calls for stricter regulations as states weigh the implications of the 2018 Farm Bill.