No, THCA remains illegal in Arkansas under the state’s 2023 hemp-derived cannabinoid restrictions, which align with the federal 2018 Farm Bill’s THC thresholds. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture enforces these rules, prohibiting all tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) isomers—including THCA—unless derived from federally compliant hemp. Local law enforcement has increased scrutiny on unregulated THCA products, particularly in retail outlets near college campuses. Compliance officers should verify that any THCA-containing products test below 0.3% delta-9 THC post-decarboxylation to avoid misclassification as controlled substances.
Key Regulations for THCA in Arkansas
- Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Ban: Arkansas Code § 2-15-2103 explicitly prohibits the sale or possession of THCA, classifying it as a Schedule VI controlled substance unless derived from hemp with <0.3% total THC.
- Post-Decarboxylation Testing: The Arkansas Department of Agriculture mandates that all hemp products undergo third-party testing to confirm delta-9 THC levels after heating, as THCA converts to THC under these conditions.
- Local Enforcement Priorities: The Arkansas State Police and county sheriffs’ departments have prioritized raids on unlicensed THCA retailers, particularly in Pulaski and Washington counties, following 2024 legislative directives to curb unregulated cannabinoid sales.