PHOTO: Courtesy of WLUK
OSHKOSH (WTAQ-WLUK) — To buy or possess THC products in Oshkosh, you now must be at least 21 years old.
Common Council passed an ordinance unanimously on Tuesday night to require cannabis dispensaries to verify they are at least 21 years old. Wisconsin doesn’t currently have a clear state law on an age minimum.
“[It’s] making sure that people are fully informed and developed before they can make that decision to partake in adult and altering substances,” said Deputy Mayor Karl Buelow, who introduced the new ordinance.
Is cannabis even legal in Wisconsin?
Weed is still illegal in Wisconsin, but you can buy certain cannabis products including Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, Delta-10 THC, HHC and THCA. These are all psychoactive stimulants found in the cannabis plant.
They became legal with the federal 2018 Farm Bill, legalizing products called if the Delta-9 THC level is 0.3% or less of the total weight of the plant, known as hemp. Any plant with a weight above that threshold is considered marijuana, and is illegal.
Manufacturers infuse products like drinks or gummies with legal cannabinoid stimulants, but there aren’t clear limits surrounding them.
Some Oshkosh retailers sell to customers 18+
In Oshkosh, the several retailers we visited were split on whether they sell only to 21-and-up or also to those as young as 18 years old, which is why Buelow introduced the new ordinance.
“For me, I don’t really care what people do, but it’s to make it a level playing field for retailers,” said Buelow.
No retailer we spoke with was willing to interview, but most actually favored this new ordinance to level the playing field, even including those who currently sell only to those 18-and-up. No businesses outright said they opposed it.
Council discussion quick, without disagreement
Council discussion lasted only a few minutes with the support of all its members.
“I think that establishing 21 as the minimum age for purchasing these products makes sense,” said Councilmember Alec Lefeber.
Added Councilmember Jacob Amos: “I think it’s a great ordinance, and I think it’s great for the health of our youth here.”
CBD is not included in the new ordinance, which will take effect in a few weeks.
An adult who buys or possesses these substances faces a $75 fine, plus court fees.
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