2024 Update
TSTL Holding’s Call to Action
The Alabama Hemp Industry is Under Attack!
TSTL Holdings LLC DBA “Boro Hemp Co Currently manufactures and sells over
470 unique hemp products out of Gadsden, Alabama. We are relocated to Gadsden in
July of 2022. At the time of our relocation, we worked with the city and county to
ensure we had correctly registered and paid all fees and obtained all licensing and permits we needed to begin operations.
On January 6th, 2023, TSTL Holdings LLC DBA “Boro Hemp Co” was visited by the AL Department
of Health. We gave the Department full access to inspect our facility.
On January 17, 2023, the Department of Health sent us “food condemnation order”
demanding that we destroy all our “food” products containing CBD.
You are next.
The Department says that all “Food or food products containing cannabidiol or
cannabidiol derivatives shall not be manufactured or sold within the state of
Alabama” and that such products are a “public health nuisance.”
This position is not being taken with respect to our company only. In
fact, We were informed by the Department of Health it was illegal to manufacture
edible products that contain any type of cannabinoid of any kind. They cited the
FDA guidance as to adulterating a food product as the basis for their ruling. It is
important to note here that the inspector admitted that our policies and
procedures met and exceeded requirements. Were more thorough than they even
required, and thus excelled. They said we must install automatic door closures on
the restrooms and vents in the restrooms. Both of which were addressed
immediately.
Nonetheless, on January 17th, 2023 we received two orders to cease
production and to destroy our products. At this time they chose to include that
edible products containing cannabinoids were not allowed to be sold in the state as well.
Consequently, we have filed an appeal with the Department of Health but will
likely have to proceed to court to prove what should be obvious from the existing
law – that Alabama has specifically legalized the manufacture and sale of food and other products with CBD.
The Department is going all-in to get rid of any edible product containing CBD. This promises to be a drawn out and expensive legal battle and however, weighing
in the balance is the impact on the entire industry here in Alabama from seed to literally sale.
Farmers – No need to produce as much as the largest portion of sales will
be gone if this position holds goes through not to mention the fact that
many farmers either pay someone or produce their own edible products
to supplement their income.
Manufacturers – The State is trying to take away your right to
manufacture CBD in any edible format. It is the number one section of the
hemp market so manufacturers will be deeply affected.
Wholesale/distribution facilities – Lose their top sellers.
Retailers – Already reeling from the impact of COVID will lose one of their
major sales categories.
Consumers will no longer be able to go into their local shop where they
feel comfortable and can ask questions. They will be forced to purchase
these products online and most reputable companies will not
sell to an address in Alabama in fear of legal repercussions leaving them to
attempt to drive across state lines to procure the items they are used to
being able to purchase from retailers they trust.
TSTL is dedicated to protecting our customers, our business and our
industry from government overreach. But we need your help. Join us in our fight
to enforce the rights granted under Alabama Law against the Health Department of
Alabama, either by vocal support or monetary. Your voice matters!