In 2018, a remarkable piece of legislation that would change how we see hemp forever came into effect. Hemp was removed from the list of controlled substances thanks to the Agricultural Improvement Act, also known as the 2018 Farm Bill.
Suddenly, the cultivation, sale, and use of cannabis and the myriad of products made from the plant became legal in the United States and its territories.
But the thing is, while the Farm Bill opened doors for hemp enthusiasts, certain substances in the cannabis plant (like THC) might not be legal, at least in some states. This raises the question: Is delta 9 legal in California?
Here’s all the vital information you need if you’re looking to try out delta-9 THC products in the Golden State.
Is Delta 9 Legal in California?
Delta 9 is legal in California with the signing of the state Bill AB-45 into law. The law essentially legalized the use of THC in consumables and consumer products as long as the delta-9 THC in the products is less than or at 0.3% concentration.
In the past, hemp-infused dietary supplements, cosmetics, and foods are prohibited in California. The reason for this was simple: they are classified as “adulterated products” by the Sherman Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Law, so they can’t be sold or bought in the Golden State.
All that changed, thanks to the current California law regarding THC, which complies with the 2018 Farm Bill. With the current law, infusing the compound into edibles like beverages, gummies, and other consumables is considered legal.
What Exactly Is Delta-9 THC?
If you’re considering trying out a delta-9 THC product for the first time, knowing what to expect is important. First, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a psychoactive compound, meaning it can (and does, in most cases) interact with the brain and alter the various activities and functions of the mind.
That’s to say, taking delta-9 THC products typically leads to a “high,” altering your mood, perception, and cognition. But you don’t have to worry about getting stoned or experiencing any significant changes in behavior due to THC's psychoactive (or somewhat intoxicating) effects.
To comply with the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived delta-9 THC products usually contain minimal levels of THC, so you should be good as long as you consume hemp-derived delta 9 responsibly and in moderation.
Although reactions or responses to THC vary between individuals, delta 9 from hemp isn't as potent as THC from marijuana. Still, it delivers a more intense high than its close cousin, delta-8 THC.
Think of delta 9 as the middle ground, providing a well-balanced and robust experience that appeals to both seasoned cannabis users and those seeking a potent, but not overwhelming, psychoactive effect. It’s like getting the best of both worlds ― a satisfying high without veering into the extremes of intensity.
Speaking of a satisfying high, most users experience one or more of the following in varying degrees after taking hemp-derived delta-9 THC products:
- Feel euphoric
- Experience relaxation
- Have sharper focus
- Engage in talkativeness
- Notice increased appetite
- Fall asleep faster
- Experience improved mood
Is Delta-9 THC Safe?
Now that we’ve addressed the legality of delta 9 in the Golden State, let’s shift our focus to something even more crucial for a minute: how safe is the compound?
As mentioned, the chances of getting stoned from consuming THC-infused gummies are really low, particularly if the compound is derived from hemp. However, it is usually best to steer clear of driving or operating machinery after enjoying any THC product.
To be clear, delta-9 THC is generally safe for most people when consumed responsibly. However, its exact effect will depend on a few factors, like the quantity, method of consumption, age, body weight, and product type (capsules, edibles, tinctures, or vapes).
Regardless of what works for your friends or peers, it’s super important to figure out and consume only the dosage that suits you. And just in case you can’t tell what dose to take (probably because you’re new to delta-9 THC), it is best to start with small doses. Remember to take things slow!
You could get a vast world of positive experiences from delta 9, but there’s seriously no point in rushing things. Gauge your body’s response first before taking things up a notch. And there’s no shame in cutting back a bit if the compound hits you too hard.
Will Delta-9 THC Show Up on Drug Tests?
That’s a yes! THC ― whether delta 9 or any other form ― will show up on a drug test, so you might want to avoid THC products for a while if you have an upcoming drug test or need to stay clear of any potential legal or employment-related issues.
While it’s easy to mask THC-infused gummies with pleasant flavors, drug tests for THC will easily detect the presence of THC and its byproducts in urine, blood, and other bodily fluids.
California Recreational Cannabis Laws
Is delta 9 legal in California? Of course, it is! And there’s more good news. Cannabis enthusiasts in the Golden State can legally use marijuana for recreational purposes.
Many states, including Texas, Alabama, and Minnesota, outrightly prohibit the use of recreational marijuana (although some allow medical marijuana under strict conditions).
Thankfully, California is among the first states to legalize marijuana for medical and recreational purposes, so you can use a wider range of cannabis products. But before you roll up your joint, here are a few things to keep in mind so you don’t get on the wrong side of the law.
- You must be 21 or older to use or even buy recreational marijuana. The Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) prohibits minors ― anyone under 21 ― from getting their hands on the good stuff.
- You can have up to 1 ounce or 28.5 grams (give or take) of dried marijuana flower or up to 8 grams of concentrated cannabis (think cannabis-infused products). Anything higher is considered an offense and is punishable under the law.
- You’re free to grow your own marijuana plants for personal use as long as you grow them in your private residence or outdoor garden, and they are no more than 6 plants in total.
- Taking a drag of your favorite flavorful joint in private is okay, but you can’t smoke buds in public spaces like schools, parks, or spots that ban tobacco.
Check out California’s Health and Safety Code for more details on offenses and penalties relating to recreational marijuana.
Can You Buy Delta 9 in California?
Yes, you can buy delta 9 THC and other cannabis-infused products like delta 8, CBD, and HHC in California. But these things can only be purchased by adults. And by adults, we mean those 21 or older (sorry, 18-year-olds don’t make the cut in the Golden State as far as THC is concerned).
If you’re 21 or older, you can legally buy, possess, and use delta-9 THC products in the Golden State.
Where Can You Buy Delta-9 THC Products in California?
Getting your hands on delta 9 products in California is pretty easy. You can find tons of dispensaries and smoke shops in different cities selling various THC-infused products.
It is usually best to seek out reputable sources like Two Hawk Hemp Co when getting delta 9 gummies.
Our THC-infused gummies are available in strawberry, watermelon, and green apple flavors and contain 5 mg and 10 mg of THC. Give our gummies a try, and let the calming effects of cannabis wash over you!