Cannabis products and CBD products grown from hemp are legal in Connecticut. While they can both be found in the cannabis plant, there are important differences including how they may affect you, how they are regulated and who can buy them.
Both products may contain THC and CBD, which are cannabinoids. THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol, but commonly refers to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. It is a cannabinoid molecule in cannabis that's long been recognized as the main psychoactive ingredient that causes people to feel high. Connecticut has approved the use of cannabis and cannabis products, including high-THC hemp products for medical and adult-use purposes.
CBD is chemically similar to THC but does not have the same psychoactive effects of THC. In Connecticut, CBD products that are not sold by licensed cannabis establishments must contain less THC than a high-THC hemp product. It is important that consumers research CBD products and companies before purchasing and using products sold online and locally.
Both cannabis and CBD products can be consumed in many ways, including smoking or vaping, eating or drinking, and applying it under the tongue or on the skin.
Make sure to read product labels carefully to understand serving size and dosage information.
| Cannabis Products | CBD Products | |
|---|---|---|
| THC Limit | Products contain THC levels of High-THC Hemp Products and higher (Adult-Use Cannabis Product THC Limits: Up to 30 percent for cannabis flower; Up to 60 percent for other cannabis products) |
Less THC than a High-THC Hemp Product or Moderate-THC Hemp Product |
| Psychoactive effect (produces a high) | Yes | No |
| Regulatory Authority for Growing, Manufacturing and Packaging | Department of Consumer Protection | Department of Agriculture (Food products containing CBD are also regulated as any other food product) |
| Are Product Sales Regulated? | Yes (Department of Consumer Protection) |
No |
| Where to Buy | Licensed Cannabis Establishment (Retailer, hybrid retailer or medical dispensary facility) |
Licensed Cannabis Establishment (Retailer, hybrid retailer or medical dispensary facility) Retail Store Online |
| Identification Required | Yes | No |
| Age Restriction | Adults 21+ Medical Marijuana Patients: 18+ and minors under 18 who have been certified by a practitioner as having an approved condition |
No |
| Amount Allowed to be Carried on a Person | Adults over 21+: 1.5 ounces Registered qualifying patients and caregivers: 5 ounces |
No limit |
| Potency Testing | Yes | Yes, for products manufactured in Connecticut |
| Health Claims Allowed | Only for Medical Marijuana products | No |
| Prescription Required | Only for Medical Marijuana patient registration | No |
| Can THC be Detected in a Drug Test? | Yes | Depends on amount consumed or prolonged use |