BREAKING NEWS: Comedy legends Cheech and Chong…read more
Comedy legends and cannabis advocates Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong have filed a lawsuit against the state of California, challenging its recent ban on certain hemp-derived products. The legal action aims to overturn regulations that the pair argue unfairly restrict the sale of hemp items, particularly in a market that has otherwise embraced cannabis legalization.
The lawsuit, filed in state court, takes issue with California’s prohibition on certain hemp-infused products, including edibles and beverages containing hemp-derived cannabinoids like CBD. Cheech and Chong argue that the ban contradicts both federal law, which permits the sale of hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill, and California’s own progressive stance on cannabis.
“For a state that has been at the forefront of cannabis reform, this kind of regulation is a step backward,” said Tommy Chong in a public statement. “Hemp is legal and should have the same freedoms as other cannabis products.”
California’s regulations have sparked widespread frustration among hemp industry stakeholders, who say the laws stifle innovation and create unnecessary barriers for businesses. Cheech Marin added, “It’s not just about us—this is about ensuring access to safe, legal, and regulated hemp products for everyone.”
The lawsuit comes as California faces growing criticism for its handling of cannabis and hemp industries, with claims of overregulation and lack of consistency in enforcement. Advocates for hemp hope this legal challenge will lead to clearer, fairer policies that reflect the plant’s legal status and economic potential.
As the case unfolds, it could set a significant precedent for the hemp industry, both within California and nationwide. Cheech and Chong’s iconic status in the cannabis world only adds visibility to the issue, drawing attention from supporters and industry leaders alike.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
