Rebecca Rivas
ReporterRebecca Rivas covers civil rights, criminal justice and immigration for the Missouri Independent. She has been reporting in Missouri since 2001, most recently as senior reporter and video producer at the St. Louis American, the nation's leading African-American newspaper.
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The DEA temporarily labeled two potent kratom-related opioids as Schedule I controlled substances. Many of those products are made by Kansas City-based CBD American Shaman. -
Missouri's ban on hemp-derived THC drinks starts Nov. 12. But, if Congress gives final approval to a short-term funding bill and the president signs it, the beverages could stay on shelves longer. -
High Profile Cannabis dispensary workers in Columbia last week unanimously ratified what union officials say is Missouri's first collective bargaining contract for cannabis workers, securing higher pay and paid vacation time. -
In a recent St. Louis case, the Missouri State Highway Patrol told an appellate court that “hundreds of thousands” of marijuana offenses may still exist on criminal records that should have been cleared. And it's not clear what affected people are supposed to do about it. -
Attorney General Catherine Hanaway sued American Shaman in March, taking particular aim at 7-OH, the company’s more potent products that she argued are “hazardous opioids." The company could face a $5 million penalty if it breaks the settlement. -
Attorney General Catherine Hanaway was taking particular aim at the more potent 7-OH products, which she argues are “hazardous opioids” banned by state and federal law.
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Missouri shop owners are also questioning the evidence behind Attorney General Catherine Hanaway’s crackdown, which relies heavily on lab results gathered by a marijuana industry group —whose members compete with hemp retailers.
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Missouri veterans and first-responders would be able to possess "magic mushrooms" if they’re enrolled in a study and it's administered by a facilitator. Despite overwhelming support for the idea in past years, Thursday marks the first time the Missouri House has sent the bill on to the Senate. -
All intoxicating hemp products, including THC seltzers currently sold in bars and grocery stores, would be removed from shelves in November if Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe signs the bill into law. Such products are not regulated by any government agency. -
Missouri voters earmarked the marijuana tax money for veterans services, public defenders and substance use treatment, but Missouri budget plans would leave tens of millions unavailable.
