City sets new rules for sale of cannabinoids
The city of Medford is taking a tougher stand on keeping vaping devices and intoxicating substances out of the hands of children.
At the April 16 meeting, council members approved adopting a new ordinance that would prevent people under age 21 from buying, possessing and using intoxicating cannabinoids.
The ordinance covers any amount of a hemp-derived cannabinoid including delta-8 THC, delta-10 TCH, HHC, HHC-O, THCA, THC-O, THCP, or THCV except as specifically allowed by Wisconsin law.
The ordinance addresses a loophole in the current state and federal laws which does not include an age limit for when people may purchase these products. Police chief Chad Liske noted that with three vape stores in the community and the growing popularity of these devices, there is concern about underage use of these intoxicating substances.
Cannabinoids are chemicals that affect the body in various ways and are derived from both hemp and cannabis. Two well-known cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The proposed ordinance is targeted at the compounds and products designed to create levels of intoxication, as opposed to those compounds that are more typically used for medicinal purposes.
In the absence of federal and state rules, municipalities such as Medford are left to pass their own restrictions. Up until now the vape stores have been self-regulating and choosing not to sell to those under 21 which parallels the federal rules in place for sale of tobacco products. While Wisconsin law allows people age 18 and older to possess and use tobacco products, they are not able to purchase the items.
In a related action, council members approved amending the tobacco sales ordinances to state those under age 18. The existing ordinance refers to restricting sales, use and possession to “students.” It was noted that not everyone under age 18 is a student and the ordinance is meant to apply to all those under 18.
In other business, council members:
Approved installing a stop sign at the corner of Conrad Dr. and South Park Ave. With the construction of a new duplex on the corner, there is less visibility there and concern about crashes.
Approved the permit for the class of 2024 to contract with Big Daddy’s Fireworks to have a fireworks display following the graduation ceremony on May 24.
Approved applying for a community development block grant for wastewater treatment plant upgrades. In addition, the city council agreed that if the federal grant funds were awarded, the city would commit to its local match of the grant funds.
Approved the council reorganization with Christine Weix reelected as council president, no changes to the standing committees, and the reappointment of the city attorney.
