The 2018 Farm Bill opened the floodgates to hemp farms across the country, thanks to the efforts of Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY). This surge in hemp production led to an oversupply of CBD, causing prices to plummet and leaving extractors and processors scrambling to find new ways to make money. This unexpected turn of events is explored in the documentary High Stakes: How The US Accidentally Legalized Weed, directed by Rob Rosen.
Through interviews with experts, activists, and policymakers, the film delves into the complex issue of cannabis legalization and its impact on public health, criminal justice, and economic opportunities. One of the key points highlighted in the documentary is the loophole in the Farm Bill that allows for the creation of synthetic cannabinoids, such as delta-8, from CBD using dangerous chemicals. These products can be sold legally in states where adult-use cannabis is still illegal, as long as they contain less than 0.3% delta-9-THC.
As Kyle Jagger from Marijuana Moment puts it, “The Senate legalized cannabis without knowing it.” This lack of regulation has allowed for dangerous products to flood the market, as explained by Kevin Kuethe, Chief Cultivation and Production Officer at Lume Cannabis. Unlike cannabis companies, hemp companies do not have to go through expensive third-party testing, making it easier for them to sell potentially harmful products.
The documentary also sheds light on Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his strong opposition to cannabis. Despite his well-documented distaste for the plant, Gov. DeSantis vetoed a bill that would have banned the sale of unregulated and synthetic THC products in the state. This decision was met with criticism, especially since the governor had previously stated, “I don’t want this state reeking of marijuana.”
High Stakes: How The US Accidentally Legalized Weed provides a thought-provoking commentary on the changing landscape of cannabinoids in America. As Kuethe puts it, “Marijuana has a lot of beneficial effects and qualities for human beings, which is why this plant is so popular.” The documentary offers a multifaceted view of cannabis legalization and its implications, highlighting the need for proper regulation in the industry.
