South Carolina law enforcement chiefs are urging legislators to reject GOP Rep. Greg Ford's proposal to regulate intoxicating hemp products, arguing that it is unenforceable and essentially "legalizes recreational marijuana." Ford, whose son uses the products for seizures, proposed regulating sales with licenses, dosage caps, and an age limit instead of enacting the near-total ban favored by law enforcement leaders.

South Carolina Police Urge Ban Over Regulation of Hemp Products

Feb 10, 2026

Source:

Marijuana Moment

South Carolina is currently a major battleground for hemp access. Law enforcement leaders are putting heavy pressure on state lawmakers to enact a total ban on intoxicating hemp products, rather than the regulation-focused approach proposed by Representative Greg Ford. Ford, whose son relies on THC-infused hemp for seizure relief, advocated for a licensed system with age limits and dosage caps. However, police chiefs argue these rules are unenforceable and essentially amount to recreational legalization. While some politicians are pushing for a compromise involving strict limits and liquor store sales, others want these "gas station high" products gone entirely.

This situation is critical for the community because it highlights how personal medical needs can be overshadowed by broad enforcement concerns. For local tokers, a total ban would wipe out safe, legal access to mild alternatives that many use for wellness or relaxation without the intensity of traditional flower. It’s a reminder that without clear, common-sense regulations, the bridge between hemp and cannabis remains a target for those who still view the plant through a 1930s lens.