Delta-8 in Pennsylvania: Everything You Need to Know
When cannabis crosses your mind, you’re probably thinking about Delta-9 THC. Delta-9 is the main compound in cannabis that causes your high—it’s essentially marijuana. Though lately, Delta-8 THC has been taking the stage as a viable, less potent alternative.
But what is Delta-8? And is it legal in Pennsylvania? In this article, we’ll dive into the nuances of Delta-8 so you can make an informed decision on whether or not to buy it.
What is Delta-8?
Delta-8 is a naturally occurring THC compound that’s up to three times less potent than Delta-9. When you take the same dose as, for example, what’s in your everyday Delta-9 THC gummy, you’ll receive all the same psychoactive effects of a relaxing cannabis experience, but without the side effects that put many people out of commission.
Why is Delta-8 THC becoming so popular?
Delta-8 has been gaining popularity because it flies under the radar in terms of legality. Because of its minimal potency, Delta-8 isn’t currently classified as marijuana, and you can technically buy it wherever you legally buy CBD.
It’s also the perfect alternative for those who want to experience the benefits of marijuana without experiencing the intense high associated with it. Delta-8 provides a legal and accessible way to get a less-intense high in states where recreational marijuana use may still not be legal.
Are there benefits to Delta-8?
Delta-8 THC is said to have many benefits. For many, it’s like a chill pill with added focus. Those who have tried Delta-8 expressed that they felt clear-headed, present, and relaxed.
In addition, Delta-8 shares many of the same benefits as everyday marijuana: decreased pain, improved digestion, reduced anxiety, and more.
Is Delta-8 actually legal?
The short answer: It’s complicated. Delta-8 THC is federally unregulated, but only by a loophole. In the 2018 Farm Bill, Congress legalized the production and use of hemp and its derivatives, classifying hemp as a cannabis plant containing 0.3% Delta-9 THC or less.
Delta-8, although considered a direct derivative of hemp, is completely omitted from this bill. This makes it legal to sell by default.
At this point, 14 states have placed bans on the sale of Delta-8 THC including Alaska, Colorado, Arizona, Montana, New York, and Vermont—all states where recreational marijuana use is completely legal. Because Delta-8 hasn’t been evaluated or regulated by the FDA, many are concerned by the lack of research performed on its effects.
So can you buy Delta-8 in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is not currently on the list of states that have outlawed Delta-8 THC. While recreational marijuana use is illegal, Pennsylvania legalized commercial hemp farming in 2019 in response to the aforementioned Farm Bill.
Prior to the Farm Bill, Pennsylvania passed Act 92 in 2016. Act 92 allowed the research of industrial hemp, which in turn legalized CBD, but it didn’t exactly address any of its derivatives. And since Delta-8 is a direct derivative of hemp, it’s legalized by the same technicality on the Pennsylvania state level as it is federally.
Are there Delta-8 Possession Limits in Pennsylvania?
At this point, there are no possession or consumption limits for Delta-8 in Pennsylvania. However, it’s important to keep in mind that certain drug tests may not differentiate between Delta-8 and Delta-9 in your system. Most drug tests detect THC as a whole rather than specific strands.
If you choose to risk being asked to take a drug test, make sure you communicate to the administrators exactly which product you’re using!
Alternatives to Delta-8
If you don’t want to risk buying a product that might make you fail a drug test, the next best thing is CBD. CBD is legal in Pennsylvania and has the same relaxing effects as Delta-8, just without the high. It might make you a bit drowsier than Delta-8, but it can help you sleep, calm your anxiety, and reduce overall pain.
Should you buy Delta-8?
Hopefully now you know more about this new popular strain of THC. Delta-8 THC products are currently unregulated, so make sure you find a reputable source.
At Burman’s Health Shop, our Delta-8 THC products are sourced for quality. Available in vape cartridges, oils, gummies, and other edibles, we have a product to fit just about every need. Shop our large selection of Delta-8 products!
