Statewide Iowa — Law enforcement officers conducting traffic stops in Iowa can now issue fines if they find an open container of a beverage containing THC in the passenger area of the vehicle. It’s a new law that went into effect today (Tuesday), and those caught violating it are to be fined 260 dollars. Representative Zach Dieken of Granville is a state trooper who led the debate of the policy this spring.
It has long been illegal to have an open or unsealed bottle, can or jar of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle. Iowa law now extends to open containers of beverages that contain any amount of THC derived from hemp, a chemical that has intoxicating effects. Representative Jerome Amos Junior of Waterloo says it’s an important change.
This latest policy on THC drinks passed the legislature with only one “no” vote. Last year, the legislature limited the amount of THC from hemp that can be in consumable products produced and sold in Iowa.
KIWA Staff Photo
