Latest Update on the “HITA” Case in Arizona Courts

Superior Court Ruling & Appeal

As of June 25, 2025, the Maricopa County Superior Court issued a mixed ruling:

The Good: The judge acknowledged that Arizona law does not distinguish between intoxicating and non-intoxicating cannabinoids—marking a notable win for HITA and the hemp industry at large.

The Bad: The court denied injunctive relief, meaning Arizona can continue its enforcement actions against retailers and producers while the legal process continues.

Immediately following this decision, HITA filed an expedited appeal with the Arizona Court of Appeals, aiming to halt enforcement and establish clear protections for compliant hemp products under federal law.

What’s at Stake

The case now moves into the appellate phase, where the stakes are higher than ever. Central questions include:

Does Arizona’s enforcement conflict with the 2018 Farm Bill and the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution?

Are licensed producers and distributors of federally legal hemp products being unfairly penalized?

Can states legally ban hemp-derived cannabinoids that meet federal requirements?

The appellate decision could reshape how Arizona regulates hemp—and could influence policy across other states that are watching this case closely.

Community Response

The hemp industry and its advocates have been vocal. Social media and legal observers noted the strength of Full Spectrum Law’s expert testimony, particularly when compared to what some described as outdated, fear-based narratives presented by the state.

HITA posted the following statement on their Instagram acct:

“This week, the court ruled in our case — and while our injunction was denied, the judge agreed that Arizona law does not distinguish between “intoxicating” and “non-intoxicating” cannabinoids.

This is a key win and validates the core of our fight. 💪

We’re now taking this case to the Arizona Court of Appeals, and our legal team is already preparing the next steps.

This lawsuit protects the progress Arizona’s hemp community has made — from farmers to retailers, and every step in between. 🌿

We’re not backing down. We’re just getting started. ☺

Join us. Support the movement. ✊”

— HITA, Instagram

Why This Matters

This isn’t just a legal battle—it’s about the survival of Arizona’s hemp economy and the future of patient access. A win for HITA would help preserve full-spectrum product lines, support small businesses, and honor the intent of federal law. A win for the state could lead to tighter enforcement nationwide, restricting access to products that many rely on for relief and wellness.

Timeline & Next Steps

Summer 2025: A decision from the Arizona Court of Appeals is expected in the coming weeks.

Enforcement: Until a ruling is made, Arizona continues its current enforcement practices against hemp-derived products sold outside of licensed dispensaries.

Potential Appeals: The losing party in this appeal is widely expected to take the case to the Arizona Supreme Court—and possibly even the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Final Thoughts

The HITA case is a defining moment for cannabis and hemp policy in Arizona. It could establish a legal framework that protects hemp commerce under federal law—or it could empower states to shut down entire segments of the hemp industry. We’ll be following every development and will publish a full breakdown once the appellate court issues its ruling.

Until then, stay informed, stay engaged, and thank you for reading Cannabis Cactus Magazine.