Is HHC Legal in Your State?
Since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, the world of cannabinoids has been expanding by leaps and bounds. Alternatives to THC and CBD keep appearing. This is the case with HHC, one of the latest cannabinoids that could revolutionize the industry.
This new form of THC is more stable and withstands various factors such as oxidation, heat, and ultraviolet light better than THC. Below, we’ll tell you everything we know about HHC, its legality in each state, and what the future looks like for this new cannabinoid.
Bottom Line: HHC Laws In America
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized the cultivation of hemp and its derivatives at the federal level. According to this law, legal cannabis derivatives are those that contain less than 0.3% THC by dried weight.
HHC products, including HHC gummies and vape carts, meet this legal requirement.
Still, each state can choose to pass similar laws and recategorize substances at the state level. HHC is not an abundant compound in the hemp plant, so the process involves transforming CBD, CBN, or CBC to obtain it.
Unfortunately, cannabis laws can change at any time. You should be aware that state legislators may suddenly consider it a controlled substance overnight. Therefore, we suggest you stay up-to-date with current regulations before using HHC.
HHC Legality By State
Most US states don’t have any laws covering HHC. Despite this compound being around for decades, lawmakers haven’t heard of it yet.
Because of this, HHC is legal in most but not all US states. Here's a snapshot of the current state of HHC legality in the United States.
HHC Laws in Alabama
HHC is legal in Alabama under state law [2], which coincides with federal law. As a result, Alabama has specifically legalized all hemp products that contain less than 0.3% THC.
HHC Laws in Alaska
Although medical and recreational use of marijuana is legal, HHC is potentially illegal in Alaska. Unfortunately, this state prohibits hemp-derived THC and all THC isomers, categorizing them as Schedule III on their list of controlled substances.
HHC Laws in Arizona
HHC is probably illegal in Arizona. The situation of this cannabinoid is confusing in this state, as recreational cannabis has been legal since 2020, but at the same time, it is considered a controlled substance.
The only THC permitted and legal for recreational purposes is delta 9, commonly referred to as THC. The Arizona State Administrative Register and Revised Statutes prohibit any isomer of THC, including delta 8 and delta 10.
While Arizona law does not explicitly mention HHC, it would be wise to consider it forbidden as it is an isomer of THC.
HHC Laws in Arkansas
HHC is illegal in Arkansas. The 2018 Farm Bill specifically legalized cannabinoids derived from the hemp plant. However, the DEA stated that synthetically derived cannabinoids would still be considered controlled substances.
Since hemp does not contain high levels of HHC, this cannabinoid is not extracted directly from the plant but is derived from CBD. As a result, Arkansas interprets it as a controlled substance and, therefore, illegal.
HHC Laws in California
HHC is legal in California, as the state has not explicitly banned this cannabinoid. However, keep in mind that California changed its laws through Bill AB-45 [3] on the use of THC in hemp-derived products. Food and drinks have to contain less than 0.3% THC.
The state defines "tetrahydrocannabinol" to include delta 8, 9, and 10 and any isomers in the definition. Therefore, California lawmakers could restrict HHC at any time. Still, for now, it remains unregulated.
HHC Laws in Colorado
HHC is probably illegal in Colorado because the state specifically prohibits "chemically modified" THC isomers, such as hemp-derived delta 8 and 10. Since HHC also comes from hemp-derived CBD, it is possibly illegal in Colorado by definition.
HHC Laws in Connecticut
For the time being, HHC is legal in Connecticut. Still, this state only allows the sale of legal hemp products to licensed retailers. For now, HHC has not been banned, but since it is an isomer of THC, its future legal status is uncertain.
HHC Laws in Delaware
HHC is potentially illegal in Delaware. Hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% delta 9 THC are legal but unregulated, but delta 8 is banned. THC products and isomers are prohibited under Title 16 of the Delaware Uniform Controlled Substances Act.
Although Delaware does not have specific laws addressing the legal status of HHC, this cannabinoid is an isomer of THC. Therefore, its legal status is questionable in this state, yet it would be wise to consider it illegal.
HHC Laws in Florida
HHC is legal in Florida. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services recently declared that all hemp-derived extracts and products containing less than 0.3% total THC are legal.
Thus, although the state does not explicitly delve into the legality of HHC, it is safe to infer that it is legal. For this case, we rely on the legality of other hemp-derived cannabinoids in Florida, such as delta 8 THC.
HHC Laws in Georgia
HHC is legal in Georgia, and its sale and distribution aren't explicitly prohibited here. Currently, this state has not banned the sale of hemp-derived [4] cannabinoids, and stores sell them without restriction.
Still, this state has banned the manufacture and sale of synthetic cannabinoids. Therefore, if the state were to consider HHC a "synthetic" cannabinoid, it would become illegal in Georgia.
HHC Laws in Hawaii
HHC is partially legal in Hawaii. HHC is not textually banned in Hawaii as a cannabinoid. However, this state prohibits smokable and inhalable hemp, so hemp flower, hemp leaf, cigarettes, and vapes are illegal.
This regulation also prohibits cannabinoid-infused foods and beverages, such as gummies. For the time being, the only products allowed in Hawaii are tablets, capsules, tinctures, and soft gels that do not exceed the 0.3% THC threshold.
HHC Laws in Idaho
HHC is illegal in Idaho. Unfortunately, this state prohibits HHC, considering it a Schedule I controlled substance. In addition, Idaho also prohibits all hemp-derived CBD products containing any THC.
HHC Laws in Illinois
HHC is illegal in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Agriculture recently declared that hemp and its derivatives couldn’t be used to synthesize intoxicating isomers, such as HHC or delta 8 THC.
HHC Laws in Indiana
HHC is legal in Indiana. According to state law, hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal in Indiana. In this case, state law concurs with 2018 federal regulations.
HHC Laws in Iowa
HHC is probably illegal in Iowa. This is one of the most restrictive states regarding marijuana and hemp laws. While there is no specific mention of HHC, the Iowa State Code considers CBD and delta 8 illegal, so it would be correct to infer that HHC is also banned.
HHC Laws in Kansas
HHC is likely legal in Kansas. While there are no specific laws around it, state law allows hemp-derived products with THC levels below 0.3%. Therefore, Kansas complies with 2018 federal regulations.
HHC Laws in Kentucky
HHC is likely illegal in Kentucky. This is one of the strictest states when it comes to cannabis laws. In Kentucky, marijuana and its derivatives, as well as all hemp derivatives excepting CBD, are considered Schedule I controlled substances.
Therefore, the use, possession, and sale of HHC products are prohibited, as are other isomers such as delta 8, 10, and THCP.
HHC Laws in Louisiana
HHC is legal in Louisiana. State law permits the use and sale of hemp-derived products with a THC content of less than 0.3%. This way, Louisiana legislates following the 2018 federal Farm Bill.
HHC Laws in Maine
HHC is legal in Maine. Under its revised statutes [7], all hemp derivatives with a THC concentration of less than 0.3% by dry weight are legal. This includes extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, and salts of isomers.
Topical application products, food additives, and hemp-derived food products are also legal in Maine, as long as they do not exceed the 0.3% THC threshold.
HHC Laws in Maryland
HHC is legal in Maryland. According to state law, all hemp derivatives containing less than 0.3% dry THC are legal. Therefore, Maryland complies with federal regulations in effect as of 2018.
HHC Laws in Massachusetts
HHC is legal in Massachusetts. This state adheres to the 2018 Farm Bill, so all hemp derivatives with a THC percentage of less than 0.3% are permitted. This includes edibles, personal and animal care products, and cosmetics, among others.
HHC Laws in Michigan
HHC is legal in Michigan, although it is restricted.
Michigan's marijuana laws regulate hemp and marijuana-derived cannabinoids. As a result, only dispensaries and manufacturers licensed by the state may sell, produce, and distribute HHC products. This includes other THC isomers, such as delta 8, 10, THC-O, and THCP.
HHC Laws in Minnesota
HHC is legal in Minnesota as long as it is derived from hemp. Furthermore, its sale, production, and distribution are unregulated. Delta 8, 10, THC-O, and other THC isomers are also permitted if derived from legal hemp plants.
HHC Laws in Mississippi
HHC is illegal in Mississippi. Although there is no explicit mention of this cannabinoid in its laws, House Bill 1547 stipulates that all forms of tetrahydrocannabinol from the cannabis plant are classified as Schedule I substances.
HHC Laws in Missouri
HHC is probably legal in Missouri. The Missouri State Code considers hemp-derived products containing 0.3% THC or less legal. Still, state law does not explicitly mention it, so caution is advised.
HHC Laws in Montana
HHC is illegal in Montana, even though there is no specific mention of this particular cannabinoid in state law. However, Montana prohibits the sale and possession of all tetrahydrocannabinols.
The only legal THC is "natural" THC, albeit in concentrations of less than 0.3% by dry weight.
HHC Laws in Nebraska
HHC is legal in Nebraska. Under state law, this cannabinoid and other THC isomers such as delta 8, 10, and THC-O are as legal as hemp-derived CBD.
Unfortunately, state officials are reevaluating the legal status of delta 8. This could mean a change in HHC’s legal status, although law enforcement is not prosecuting the use of delta 8 or other isomers at this time.
HHC Laws in Nevada
HHC is not legal in Nevada. State law considers it a controlled substance, along with other THC isomers such as delta 8, 10, THC-O, and THCP.
The Nevada Cannabis Compliance Board stated that the state's Controlled Substances Act defines THC as delta 9, delta 8, and their optical isomers. Therefore, if a product contains more than 0.3% THC, it is considered a controlled substance.
HHC Laws in New Hampshire
HHC is likely legal in New Hampshire. State law considers hemp-derived products with a THC content of less than 0.3% legal. There is no specific mention of HHC, but no law prohibits it either.
HHC Laws in New Jersey
HHC is legal in New Jersey. This state’s Hemp Program specifically legalized all derivatives, cannabinoids, and isomers of hemp. This includes any THC other than delta 9, such as delta 8, 10, THC-O, and THCP.
HHC Laws in New Mexico
HHC is legal in New Mexico. This state considers all hemp derivatives, cannabinoids, and isomers legal. As such, New Mexico regulates hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill.
HHC Laws in New York
HHC is illegal in New York. State law restricts other THC isomers, such as delta 8, 10, and THC-O. Therefore, the sale and production of HHC products are illegal.
HHC Laws in North Carolina
HHC is legal in North Carolina. State law states that products derived from hemp with less than 0.3% THC are legal. CBD and other THC isomers, such as delta 8, 10, THC-O, and THCP, are permitted.
HHC Laws in North Dakota
HHC is illegal in North Dakota. Although hemp-derived CBD and medical cannabis are legal, HHC is a controlled substance in this state. This includes other isomers such as delta 8, 10, and THC-O.
HHC Laws in Ohio
HHC is legal in Ohio. Since state law coincides with 2018 federal law, hemp derivatives possessing less than 0.3% delta 9 THC are legal. Therefore, HHC and other isomers such as delta 8, 10, THC-O, and THCP are legal for adults in Ohio.
HHC Laws in Oklahoma
HHC is legal in Oklahoma. This state legalized hemp and all its derivatives. In addition, the Oklahoma Public Health Code stipulates that hemp tetrahydrocannabinols are not controlled substances, unlike marijuana-derived tetrahydrocannabinols.
For this reason, as long as HHC is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC, it is legal in the state.
HHC Laws in Oregon
HHC is legal in Oregon. This state recently established a new classification of cannabinoids. In this new category called "Cannabinoids for Adult Use" are tetrahydrocannabinols, delta 8, 9, and their isomers, among others.
At the moment, adult-use cannabinoids like HHC are legal in Oregon and are regulated. Still, retailers must display them out of the reach of people under 21 years old.
HHC Laws in Pennsylvania
HHC is legal in Pennsylvania. Under state law, hemp and any part of the plant containing less than 0.3% THC are legal. While there is no explicit mention of HHC, this state does not prohibit products based on this cannabinoid either.
HHC Laws in Rhode Island
HHC is probably not legal in Rhode Island. On the one hand, this state legalized all hemp derivatives, cannabinoids, and isomers. Conversely, another state law defines delta 8 as "THC," making it illegal for human consumption.
This is not a specific mention of HHC, and further clarification is needed from state legislators. However, it would be prudent to consider HHC and other isomers as illegal.
HHC Laws in South Carolina
HHC is legal in South Carolina as long as it comes from hemp with less than 0.3% THC content. CBD, delta 8, 10, and THC-O are also legal in South Carolina.
HHC Laws in South Dakota
HHC is legal in South Dakota. State law dictates that this cannabinoid is permitted as long as it is derived from hemp.
However, an age limit on the sale of delta 8, THC-O, and HHC recently went into effect. As a result, only adults over 21 years old can access these products.
HHC Laws in Tennessee
HHC is legal in Tennessee. State law considers hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% THC legal. As a result, both CBD and THC isomers, such as delta 8, 10, and THC-O, are permitted.
HHC Laws in Texas
HHC is probably legal in Texas. Under state law, hemp-derived cannabinoids with less than 0.3% THC are legal. However, the DEA addressed the legal status of delta 8 THC in 2020, stating that it may be "synthetically derived” and, therefore, illegal.
While there’s not a specific mention of HHC, delta 8 is converted from CBD, like HHC. Therefore, if authorities consider HHC a synthetic variant of THC, it could be regarded as illegal in the future.
HHC Laws in Utah
HHC is illegal in Utah. According to state law, HHC, THC-O, delta 8, and delta 10-based products are forbidden. Regardless of whether they come from hemp or marijuana, you will not be able to buy or use these cannabinoids in Utah.
HHC Laws in Vermont
HHC is probably illegal in Vermont. While state law does not explicitly mention it, no laws expressly ban its use, possession, or production.
However, this state does textually prohibit the delta 8 isomer, considering it synthetic since it is obtained from CBD. Since HHC is obtained the same way, the same laws likely apply.
HHC Laws in Virginia
HHC is legal in Virginia. State law establishes that hemp-derived products with a THC percentage of less than 0.3% are permitted. This regulation coincides with the 2018 federal Farm Bill, so other isomers such as delta 8, 10, and THC-O should be legal as well.
HHC Laws in Washington
HHC is illegal in Washington. State law considers it a controlled substance, including other THC isomers, such as delta 8, 10, THC-O, and THCP.
HHC Laws in West Virginia
HHC is legal in West Virginia. State law does not consider it a controlled substance if the product is derived from hemp and meets the THC threshold of less than 0.3%. Therefore, you will be able to buy and use HHC products without getting into trouble with the law.
HHC Laws in Wisconsin
HHC is likely legal in Wisconsin. While state law does not explicitly mention it, hemp-derived products that do not exceed the 0.3% THC threshold are entirely legal. Other isomers such as delta 8, 10, and THCP are allowed if they meet those conditions.
HHC Laws in Wyoming
HHC is probably legal in Wyoming. State law allows hemp-derived products that do not exceed the 0.3% THC threshold. Therefore, although there is no explicit mention of HHC, we consider this and other isomers such as delta 8, 10, and THCP legal in Wyoming.
What is HHC?
Hexahydrocannabinol, or HHC, is a newly emerging cannabinoid increasing in popularity in the United States. According to anecdotal reports, its effects are similar to that of THC. Plus, this new isomer has a longer shelf life than THC since it resists certain factors that degrade the latter.
Is HHC Natural or Synthetic?
HHC is a naturally-occurring cannabinoid — found in trace amounts in Cannabis sativa leaves and flowers. With that said, there are also synthetic forms of HHC available. These products are not considered legal in the United States. Only the cannabinoids present in Cannabis sativa are considered legal.
HHC vs. THC — What’s the Difference?
As a result of hydrogenation, the double-bonded chemical structure of THC breaks and is replaced with hydrogen. This variation favors the binding of THC to the endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, along with TRP pain receptors.
Consequently, the potency and effects of the cannabinoid remain unchanged. This change in the molecular structure of THC makes it much more resistant to oxidation and degradation.
THC loses hydrogen atoms upon oxidation, forming two new double bonds instead. This way, THC degrades into CBN, a much lesser psychoactive cannabinoid. Still, HHC resists oxidation, heat, and UV rays better than THC, resulting in longer shelf life.
The effects of HHC are very similar to THC. For example, feelings of euphoria, increased body temperature, and heart rate are some of them. However, some users claim that the effects of HHC are more relaxing than stimulating.
Lastly, another difference suggested by various anecdotal reports is that HHC is unlikely to show up in a drug test. Still, this is not confirmed, and other evidence suggests it will show up. You should proceed with caution if you know a drug test is imminent.
What Are the Risks & Side Effects of HHC?
Because it is such a recent cannabinoid, there is much speculation about the safety and risks of HHC. There are no studies confirming or denying possible dangers, but there are also no reports of overdose, adverse effects, or deaths from misuse of HHC.
Preliminary research so far seems to indicate that the safety profile of HHC is comparable to that of THC. Therefore, its side effects should match those caused by high doses of THC.
Possible side effects of HHC include:
- Red eyes
- Dry mouth
- Increased appetite
- Insomnia
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Fast heart rate
- Dizziness
Quick Review of The Best HHC Products to Consider:
If you're interested in trying HHC, it's important to buy from a reputable company. There are a lot of really low-quality products on the market today that are not only potentially dangerous but is not going to be a good value for the money.
You’ll want to make sure, first and foremost, that the company you’re ordering from provides clear evidence of third-party testing (for purity and contamination).
Here are some of the top-rated HHC products on the market today:
Area 52
Get 15% off all Area 52 products. Use code “CFAH” at checkout.
Area 52 is the number one seller of the best HHC gummies. This California-based company uses organic hemp grown in Colorado, Oregon, and California. They excel at creating novel extracts using safe methods and producing the highest quality products.
They produce delicious HHC-based gummies using 100% natural colors and flavors. Of course, they are third-party tested and guaranteed free of heavy metals. Furthermore, Hyperdrive HHC gummies are gluten-free and vegan friendly.
The typical package contains 30 gummies, each containing 25 mg of pure HHC. These gummies are potent, so we recommend that your initial dose be only half a serving. Also, their effects can take up to four hours to set in, so don't give in to despair as you won’t be disappointed.
Other advantages of this vendor include a 10% off coupon on your first order by entering your email address and purchases over $110 having free priority shipping.
TL;DR: Area 52
- Top-rated HHC products on the market
- Well-renowned company with thousands of loyal customers each month
- All products are third-party tested for purity & potency
Finest Labs
Finest Labs is a recent brand that offers top-quality products at reasonable prices. In their catalog, you will find vape carts, gummies, tinctures, and specific premium terpenes with various flavors, aromas, and effects.
This vendor’s products are 100% organic, and all their third-party testing is available to the public. Plus, they combine terpenes and cannabinoids, taking advantage of the entourage effect. These items have a lower cannabinoid content, so they are ideal for newcomers.
Finest Labs is a large B2B supplier with a retail lineup. This means they're able to cut out the middle man and offer some impressive pricing for their HHC and delta 8 products.
Finally, this vendor offers a welcome discount when registering an account on their website. As a bonus, they also offer free priority shipping on purchases over $150.
TL;DR: Finest Labs
- Organically-grown ingredients
- Excellent cost-potency ratio (wholesale prices for small order sizes)
- Reputable brand best known for producing high-grade terpene extracts
Binoid
Binoid is a Los Angeles-based wellness company that’s been in business since 2018. They specialize in CBD and THC delta 8 products, all made on Oregon-grown hemp. On top of that, they recently expanded their catalog with a wide variety of alternative cannabinoids.
They carry high potency HHC vape carts, as their composition is 95% HHC and 5% terpenes. You can enjoy various flavors, including Cali Gold, Sunset Sherbert, Gorilla Glue, Lucid Blue, Super Silver Haze, and Hawaiian Sunrise.
In addition, this vendor has an excellent reputation among customers, offering very potent items at an affordable price, all of them thoroughly tested through third-party labs. Their customer service is outstanding, and they offer free and fast shipping.
Moonwlkr
Moonwlkr HHC packs contain 25 gummies, and each serving packs 12.5 mg of HHC. They take approximately 30 to 60 minutes to set in, and the flavors available are Blue Dream Berry and Watermelon Zkittlez. We suggest half a gummy for the first dose.
All of their products are third-party tested, with a high rate of positive customer reviews. Additionally, this vendor has a points-based reward system, and they offer free sample packs of gummies after registering an account on their website. Unfortunately, they don’t offer free shipping on their orders.
What’s the Future of HHC In America?
Hexahydrocannabinol, or HHC, is a minor cannabinoid that may cause psychotropic effects similar to THC. It has possibly superior analgesic properties to the latter. While research on these cannabinoids is increasing, it is still too early to consider potential clinical use.
Currently, the market for alternative cannabinoids remains largely unregulated, so we advise caution when purchasing HHC products from unknown vendors. Many shady brands will not hesitate to put your health at risk if it allows them to save money.
As the alternative cannabinoid market becomes more mature, we expect to see low-grade or scammy companies be cast aside as the more reputable; dominant players take center stage. It's also likely that laws will change in some parts of the US as regulators continue to attack plant-based extracts.
We encourage you to research the company you plan to buy from by looking for unbiased third-party reviews on the internet. This will allow you to contrast customer experiences with the vendor's claims. Remember to look for COAs to verify that the product is safe and worth your money.
