INDIANAPOLIS— Today, the Interim Committee on Public Health, Behavioral Health, and Human Services heard testimony on Delta 8, Delta 9, and other THC products regarding potential health benefits, potential decriminalization, and other potential consequences. State Senator Rodney Pol Jr. (D-Chesterton) offered the following statement about the hearing:

“Today’s testimony from Hoosiers, business leaders, experts from states with legal cannabis, researchers and others made it crystal clear, it’s time for Indiana to legalize cannabis. We heard that hemp and cannabis farming, production and manufacturing have the potential to thrive in Indiana. The committee also heard firsthand how cannabis has provided medical benefits for individuals. I was also impressed with what we heard from the Republican committee chair of the Michigan legislature who shared his expertise on best practices for legalization. 

“Cannabis legalization would provide so many benefits for Hoosiers, farmers and businesses. It will also crack down on the black market and allow Hoosiers to safely purchase cannabis in Indiana rather than Illinois and Michigan. It’s time for the General Assembly to join 37 other states with some form of legal cannabis, this new market is already here and it’s time for Indiana to become the cannabis leader of the Midwest.”