By PSA Newsroom Staff
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Lawmakers in the South Carolina General Assembly are pushing bills that could ban or heavily restrict THC products, putting child safety at the forefront while drawing concern from patients and dispensary owners.
Supporters say current products are too accessible and too appealing to children. House Judiciary Chairman Rep. Weston Newton, R‑Beaufort, described the market as a “wild, wild West” and stressed the need to keep intoxicating products away from minors. “If we do a complete ban and that doesn’t get voted on or approved, then we’re left with nothing — and a 12‑year‑old, 14‑year‑old, 16‑year‑old can still have complete access to this stuff,” he said.
Law enforcement officials have similarly framed the issue in terms of child safety. South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced a grand jury operation targeting illegal THC products, saying many were “highly intoxicating and clearly marketed to attract children and teens,” and that a “stand needed to be made” against those selling them.
Opponents say a broad ban could harm people who use THC products responsibly and those who depend on them for medical reasons. Rep. Justin Bamberg, D‑Bamberg, argued adults should be allowed to choose for themselves — whether that’s a CBD drink, a THC gummy, or another hemp-derived product. “Especially if it means that 75‑year-old or 55‑year-old Marine Corps veteran … wants to have a CBD drink or THC drink or have a gummy, she should be able to do that,” he said.
Small business owners have made similar points at the Statehouse. Jody Luke, co‑owner of PureRemedies CBD near the South Carolina border, warned that both bills under consideration would “devastate” the local hemp industry and could drive people like her out of business. Luke also shared a personal stake, saying she uses THC products to manage degenerative disc disease and anxiety, helping her quit other medications.
Patients also stress medical use. While South Carolina currently lacks a formal medical cannabis program, a survey from the Hollings Cancer Center shows that many cancer patients use cannabis — including THC — to help with sleep, pain, mood changes, anxiety, and stress. Researchers found that about a quarter of patients surveyed reported using cannabis since diagnosis.
The legislation, including House Bill H.3924, would redefine “consumable hemp products” with strict age and sales limits. Lawmakers say child safety is their top priority, but patients and businesses are urging them to balance those concerns with the needs of adults who use THC products responsibly and rely on them for symptom relief.
Finding Balance
The debate highlights a complex tension: protecting children from accidental exposure while ensuring access for those who depend on THC for medical relief and respecting businesses that follow the law. Lawmakers and stakeholders alike acknowledge the need for regulation that is both effective and fair. Many advocates suggest solutions such as child-resistant packaging, clearer labeling, strict enforcement against sales to minors, and pathways for medical use.
Ultimately, the outcome of this legislation will shape how South Carolina balances safety, health, and commerce — aiming to protect its youngest residents without ignoring the needs of adults and the economy.
Read the full bill here: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/bills/3924.htm
