Nebraska AG targets Delta-8 retailers with lawsuits

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers announced on Thursday that he is taking stronger action against retailers selling Delta-8 products. He believes these products, a synthetic form of THC, are unregulated and potentially dangerous. Hilgers had previously tried to negotiate with shop owners to stop selling these products but has decided to escalate the situation. Hilgers' office is sending legal letters to about 35 store owners in Omaha, demanding they remove Delta-8 products from their shelves. If they do not comply, the state will sue for maximum penalties. In cases where stores continue to sell Delta-8 or other illegal substances, criminal charges may follow. Hilgers warned that his patience has run out and criminal prosecution is now an option. Retailers have expressed concern about these developments. Some, like Joseph Fraas of G&G Smoke Shops, argue that the proposed ban will harm their businesses and lead to job losses. Hilgers insists the only way for retailers to avoid legal trouble is to take Delta-8 products off their shelves. So far, the Attorney General's Office has filed 15 lawsuits against retailers for violating state laws. They have settled a majority of these cases. Hilgers linked his actions in Omaha to a warning for retailers in the state. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office supported his claims, stating that none of the stores they investigated were compliant with the law. Hilgers has been advocating for legislation to explicitly ban Delta-8. He stated that if a new bill, LB 316, passes, it may change how his office enforces the law. Supporters of the bill argue that Delta-8 poses real risks to public health. Critics of Hilgers' approach say he is creating unnecessary fear and lack solid evidence to support his claims about the dangers of Delta-8.