IS CBD LEGAL IN SOUTH CAROLINA?

IS CBD LEGAL IN SOUTH CAROLINA?

Although state regulations frequently contradict federal law, the legality of CBD oil is one of the most debated topics today. CBD oil is technically allowed in South Carolina if it is derived from the industrial hemp form of the cannabis plant.

Industrial hemp is defined as cannabis plants with a THC concentration of less than 0.30% on a dried weight basis, as defined by the 2018 Farm Bill and South Carolina legislation. CBD derived from hemp is already widely available in retailers around the country. There are no regulations on how much CBD can be bought, or consumed in South Carolina. As a result, hemp-derived CBD is uncontrolled in this state. A separate SC law allows for the use of cannabidiol for epilepsy, seizure disorders, and other medical conditions. People can consume Cannabidiol products in the state if they receive a prescription from a registered physician.

South Carolina CBD Laws

Hemp Farming Act (HB3449)

Often known as the Hemp Farming Act, which lifted the area limit for hemp growing. Due to eliminating industrial hemp and hemp-based products from the Controlled Substances Act by federal law, South Carolina sought to relax state hemp production limitations.

Industrial Hemp Bill (HB3559)

On May 10, 2017, HB3559 was signed into law, establishing the South Carolina Industrial Hemp Program and legalizing industrial hemp growing. A year before the federal government enacted the 2018 Farm Bill, the South Carolina legislature passed House Bill 3559, or the Industrial Hemp Bill.

Under this statute, industrial hemp was classified as an agricultural crop. During the pilot program’s first year, the Act also enabled 20 permit holders to cultivate hemp on up to 20 acres of property for research reasons. Moreover, during the second and third years of the program, 40 licensed hemp growers were allowed to plant their crops on up to 40 acres of land.

In the fourth and subsequent years, the state’s Department of Agriculture and universities would analyze the program to determine the number of permits and acres of land that could be cultivated.

SB1035

Since 1970, the Controlled Substances Act has made it unlawful to use marijuana, hemp, and other cannabis-derived products. Cannabis was classed as a Schedule I restricted substance under this law. Still, it did allow for partial legalization and medical cannabis for certain medical conditions.

This law also allowed minors suffering from seizure disorders to be treated with medicinal marijuana or CBD oil if their doctor recommended it and their parents or guardians agreed. Furthermore, patients diagnosed with severe epilepsy and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome were legally permitted to use medical marijuana and cannabidiol.

The state legislature passed House Bill 3449 on March 28, 2019. Medical marijuana and CBD oil with at least 15% CBD and less than 0.9% THC concentration were exempted from the law.

The laws of South Carolina have no mention of synthetic marijuana or synthetic cannabinoids. Industrial hemp, hemp-derived goods, including CBD oil, and low-THC medical marijuana are the only hemp-related regulations in the state.

How to Legally Purchase CBD in South Carolina

CBD stores in South Carolina frequently limit CBD products to consumers who are at least 18 years old, the legal age of maturity in the United States. The state also follows the FDA’s recommendations for CBD product age restrictions. Only legal adults or persons over the age of 18 are allowed to purchase smokable hemp and vapor oils, according to the government.

Several physical places in the state sell cannabidiol, but it’s best to order online if the shop can’t be accessed. Consequently, buying online is faster, safer, and more convenient to explore a wide range of brands to choose from based on price and quality. Additionally, search for stores and companies online to verify their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, client testimonials, or online feedback to ensure the high quality of their products.

Except for a few uncommon childhood disorders, the FDA has yet to certify CBD oil and other CBD products as supplements, medicines, or treatments. Nonetheless, CBD can be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription.

License Requirements

Individuals who want to develop hemp businesses that grow, farm, process, and sell hemp all in one location must apply for a hemp farmer’s permit, a hemp growers’ permit, and other industrial hemp processing-related licenses.

Hemp Processor Permit

Hemp processor permit applicants must pay a $3,000 yearly cost per facility, as well as a $100 non-refundable application charge. Corporations and individuals who want to process hemp plants in South Carolina must obtain a South Carolina Dealer and Handler License as well as a South Carolina Weighmaster License (26). Both licenses come with their own set of costs and restrictions.

Growers Permit

An annual cost of $1,000 is required of individuals or corporations who apply for a hemp farmer permit. The SCDA does not issue permits till the payment has been made.

Hemp Handler Permit

Hemp handler licenses are required for people and corporations who want to store, transport, or interact with hemp, in addition to farming and processing the product. Handler permits are neither granted to shops, including online stores, nor are they needed to obtain one.

The SCDA offers many types of hemp handler permits:

  • Laboratory
  • Transporter
  • Seed distributor or supply
  • a warehouse, storage facility, or  drying area

Where to Buy CBD Oil Locally in SC

Below are top-rated shops to purchase CBD around Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Florence.

  • Herbal Passion, LLC is located at 845 Savannah Highway in Charleston, South Carolina 29407.
  • Smok O Vape 2112 S Irby St, Florence, SC 29505 VaVaVape 6513, 704 Seaboard St unit f, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 VaVaVape 6513, 704 Seaboard St unit f, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
  •  VaVaVape 6513, 704 Seaboard St unit f, Myrtle Beach, SC
  • ●       Blue Smoke Shop is located at 6703 N Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29572.
  • GNC 2108 S Irby St # 7, Florence, SC 29505

Conclusion

Currently, there is no legislation in the works in South Carolina to legalize its use. Since 2014, when the state of South Carolina made it lawful to grow cannabidiol, the industry has changed. Licensed cultivators can grow the plant, but it must contain less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol. Furthermore, consumers should be cautious when purchasing or using CBD, especially products that give health claims. They are urged to learn more about CBD and keep up with the latest cannabis news, research, and advances.

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