MANASSAS, VA – A Manassas hemp business will be closing this weekend, after warning in August that changes to state law intended to pave the way for a retail cannabis market would crush independent operators.
In a letter posted to social media, District Hemp Botanicals founder Barbara Biddle said, "The changing regulatory landscape, the loss of products that our customers relied on, and the growing challenges facing independent hemp businesses have made it increasingly difficult to keep our doors open."
District Hemp Botanicals, which has served Manassas for nine years, sells a variety of products, including many with the psychoactive component of marijuana, THC. District Hemp Botanicals and other businesses operated legally through a provision in Virginia law that allowed products with THC to be sold as long as they contained at least 25 times as much CBD, a chemical touted as having beneficial effects, but which is not psychoactive.
In August, Virginia eliminated that exception. District Hemp Botanicals was among seven hemp businesses that sued to block the implementation of the new laws. The businesses argued that the state was effectively taking their inventory in rendering it illegal. They also argued that the state was clearing the decks for preferred businesses to thrive in a legal cannabis market to be launched in 2027.
A judge denied the request to block the laws from taking effect.
In October, the plaintiffs filed to withdraw their lawsuit without prejudice, meaning the claims can be brought to court again at a later date, Cardinal News reported.
Like so many other small business owners in this industry, I have fought hard to adapt, to find a way forward, and to keep serving the people who have supported us. But sometimes, circumstances beyond your control force you to make an incredibly difficult decision."
In her letter, Biddle said,"Like so many other small business owners in this industry, I have fought hard to adapt, to find a way forward, and to keep serving the people who have supported us ... I still believe that small, independent businesses deserve a place in this industry. The people who built this market from the ground up should have an opportunity to participate in its future, rather than be pushed out by policies and regulations that make it nearly impossible for us to compete."
The last day of business for District Hemp Botanicals will be Saturday. The shop is located at 9417 Main St. in Historic Downtown Manassas.
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