The Tupelo Police Department and the Lee County Sheriff’s Department are notifying local retailers that many marijuana, hemp, THC, and CBD items marketed as “gas station weed” are illegal under Mississippi law unless specifically exempted.
The agencies cite a recent Mississippi Attorney General opinion (2025 WL 1759226, Yancey, June 11, 2025) that reaffirms products containing hemp, tetrahydrocannabinols, and synthetic cannabinoids remain prohibited under the Mississippi Uniform Controlled Substance Act unless an exemption applies.
“This is about protecting our community and ensuring businesses operate within the law,” Tupelo Police Chief John Quaka said. “While there is confusion in the marketplace, the Mississippi Uniform Controlled Substance Act is clear: products containing Delta-8 and other synthetic cannabinoids are illegal unless exempted.” He added that officers will help businesses understand the rules during a short notice period, but “once this notice period has passed, enforcement will be immediate. Selling these products is no different than selling marijuana without a license.”
Lee County Sheriff Jim H. Johnson said his office remains committed to safety and compliance.
“The passage of the medical marijuana law has created a complex and challenging environment, but we believe that by working cooperatively with local businesses, we can address the ongoing issue of these products ending up in the wrong hands. Together, we can protect our community while respecting the intent of the law.”
Businesses have 10 days from receipt of the notice to remove illegal marijuana, hemp, THC, and CBD products. After that period, any items found in violation will be seized and businesses may face prosecution.
