• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Digital News Updates
  • Home
  • News
  • Politics
  • Business

Montana Cannabis Retailer Faces Backlash Over Synthetic Products

September 20, 2024

A protest was held outside Wild West Wellness in Billings Heights on Saturday following a report from the Montana Department of Revenue’s Cannabis Control Division (CCD) alleging that the retailer is selling unregulated synthetic marijuana products, which is illegal in the state.

The CCD has been testing products from Wild West Wellness since February and found that the dispensary was marketing synthetic items as authentic marijuana. Among the substances identified was HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol), a cannabinoid that can only be synthesized and does not occur naturally in cannabis. Investigators also reported unnaturally high levels of Delta-8 THC, indicating potential synthetic production.

Concerns have been raised by local cannabis consumers, including Kayla Allen and Lori Cole, who experienced severe adverse reactions after purchasing products from the dispensary. Both have significant experience in the marijuana industry and noted that their symptoms mirrored those typically associated with synthetic cannabis use.

The CCD issued a cease-and-desist order to Wild West Wellness, demanding that they halt the sale of these illicit products. However, the dispensary has continued operations, citing a legal loophole that allows the sale of certain hemp products under the 2018 Farm Bill, which permits items with a THC content of less than 0.3% to be sold without a marijuana license in Montana.

Despite claims from Wild West Wellness that all their products are natural and tested, the CCD has refuted these assertions, stating that the dispensary is not recognized as a licensed seller of marijuana in the state.

Residents are concerned that the ongoing operations of Wild West Wellness could lead to further health issues within the community. The CCD’s investigation is ongoing, and the department is poised to take additional measures if the cease-and-desist order is disregarded. Wild West Wellness also operates locations in Great Falls, Helena, and Bozeman.

By: DNU staff

Filed Under: Featured, News

Related Articles:

  • Senate Committee Advances North Dakota Superintendent Baesler’s Nomination for Federal Education Post
  • Daktronics to Participate in Craig-Hallum’s 22nd Annual Institutional Investor Conference
  • Poll: College not preparing students for workforce, managers avoid hiring them
  • Sheehy Fulfills Campaign Promise With Blind Trust
  • Governor Gianforte Announces Board Appointments
  • Senator Steve Daines Leads Push to Strengthen Veteran Health Care Access

Primary Sidebar

Digital News Updates Logo

Recent News Posts

  • Gianforte Continues 56 County Tour
  • Law enforcement agencies in 40 states are partnering with ICE 287(g) program
  • Gallatin College MSU’s online courses expand to meet nontraditional student needs
  • UM Video Game Team Scores National Championship

Recent Politics Posts

  • Sheehy Fulfills Campaign Promise With Blind Trust
  • Watchdogs: New Montana law restricting foreign money in elections insufficient
  • Knudsen Urges Gallatin County to Support ICE Partnership
  • Zinke Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Modernize Foreign Military Sales Notification Process

Recent Business Posts

  • Poll: College not preparing students for workforce, managers avoid hiring them
  • Bridger Aerospace Lands Record-Breaking Wildfire Contracts for Super Scooper Aircraft
  • Daktronics to Participate in Craig-Hallum’s 22nd Annual Institutional Investor Conference
  • Microsoft Marks 50th Anniversary

Copyright © 2025 Digital News Updates, All Rights Reserved.