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