A new law in the U.S. Virgin Islands is changing the landscape. It reshapes how intoxicating hemp products are regulated. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. signed the law on January 23, 2026. This new legislation places significant oversight under the Office of Cannabis Regulation (OCR). The OCR now has 90 days. It must establish new regulations. It also needs a licensing process for retailers. This change impacts products like delta-8 and delta-10.
New Law Targets Intoxicating Hemp
Bill No. 36-0105 is central to these changes. It specifically regulates intoxicating hemp. It also covers artificially derived cannabinoids. Products with delta-8 and delta-10 THC are key examples. These substances can exploit legal loopholes. They often contain psychoactive cannabinoids derived from legal hemp. Heating THCA can convert it to THC. This creates a way to achieve a high. The law aims to close this loophole. It seeks to protect public health and safety.
Immediate Impact on Sales and Possession
The new law has immediate effects. As of January 23, 2026, the sale and possession of certain products are prohibited. This applies to specified artificially derived cannabinoids. Businesses previously selling these items must secure them. They must remain in private storage. This continues until final rules are in place. The goal is to prevent unregulated products from entering the market. This protects consumers, especially young people. It also safeguards the regulated cannabis industry.
Industrial Hemp Remains Separate
Industrial hemp is not affected by this new law. It stays under the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Department. This is a distinct category. Industrial hemp is used for fiber and other products. It contains 0.3% or less of THC. This is different from intoxicating hemp derivatives. The Virgin Islands Hemp Plan, approved by the USDA, outlines rules for industrial hemp. These rules cover cultivation, testing, and post-harvest activities.
OCR Approves Key Cannabis Policies
The Virgin Islands Cannabis Board also approved several important policies. These steps prepare the territory for broader regulated cannabis operations. One significant policy is a new tracking requirement. All cannabis products sold in dispensaries must carry a Metrc Retail ID QR code. Consumers can scan this code. It provides access to testing results, harvest data, and batch information. This enhances transparency and consumer protection.
Revised Fees for Public Events
Furthermore, the board approved a revised fee structure. This applies to temporary cannabis use permits at public events. A single-event permit now costs $250. A multi-event permit costs $1,500. This allows up to 12 events within a year. Officials noted the previous $1,500 flat fee was too high for single events. These permits are for specific dates, times, and locations. They do not replace adult-use lounge licenses. Cannabis sales are not permitted at these events.
Broader Regulatory Steps
The board also adopted standardized guidance. This addresses a 250-foot buffer. It separates cannabis activity areas from sensitive locations. Schools and places where children gather are included. Waivers for this buffer are limited. They may only be granted within designated historic towns. The OCR is also working on licensing. Fourteen commercial cultivation licenses have been conditionally approved. Cultivation is expected to start soon.
This recent legislation and policy approvals mark significant progress. They aim to create a safer, more regulated market. These developments are trending news for the territory. They are related to the ongoing evolution of cannabis and hemp laws.
